The Chief held out the telephone and Clint took it.
"Mr. Fernald? This is Thayer, sir. We're awfully sorry, sir, but we got lost last night and had to sleep in a hut near here and we've only just got here a little while ago. We are coming right back, sir."
"How did you happen to get lost?" asked the principal's voice.
Clint explained as best he could.
"Byrd is there with you?"
"Yes, sir. Do you want to speak to him?"
"No. Get back here as soon as you can and come and see me at once. I want this explained a little better, Thayer. That's all. You're not--um--you're not in trouble with the police?"
"No, sir."
"All right. Get back on the first train."
Clint sighed with relief as he returned the telephone to the desk.