“You! I didn’t count you at all! You said you knew Gene Goodloe, I remember, Rowland. He’s a good sort. And of course you know Fred Lyons.”
“Yes, a little. I’ve been pretty busy so far and haven’t been around much.”
“Busy? What do you find to do?”
“Study, for one thing,” said Ira smiling.
“My fault! I forgot you had a conscience. Well, a certain amount of study does help one. That’s what I tell Brad, but he won’t listen. Advice with Brad is like water on a duck’s back, in one ear and out the other.”
“I guess I’d better go back and do some more of it,” said Ira, pulling his cap from his pocket.
“Walk around! It’s early yet. Well, if you must go——”
“I hope you’ll come and see us again,” said Brad. “Come some time when Mart’s out so we can have a chat.”
“I like that!” cried his chum. “Gee, I never get a word in edgeways when you’re around. I’ll leave it to you, Rowland. Who’s done most of the talking here this evening?”