"You shall have the money, my dear Billy," said Scott. "But who pays the bills for this little excursion?"
No one knew; nothing had been said on this subject; and a messenger was sent to the principal to ascertain his purpose in this important particular.
"The expenses of all will be paid to Moscow; beyond that the party will pay their own expenses," replied Mr. Lowington. "If, however, when they return, I think it proper to reimburse them, I shall do so. Of course any one may decline the privilege extended to him. It is not forced upon him."
"Of course I can't go, then," said Billy Bobstay, decidedly. "I haven't a dollar, nor a ruble, nor a copeck."
"Don't you decline yet, Bubby," interposed Scott.
"Yes, I shall. It wouldn't be fair for me not to do so."
"Don't you do it. We'll raise the money for you," persisted Scott.
"But I don't want to take any other fellow's chance. I am much obliged to those that voted for me, but I can't go."
"Steady, now, my darling baby," continued Scott. "I want you to go, so as to help me, for I have a big job on my hands."
"I tell you I can't go. It's no use to think of it."