The taunts of the Classics made their rivals wince, despite their affected contempt. To-morrow was the day of the meeting; and between now and then they must decide whether or not they would obey their own seniors and stay away, or revolt and take the consequences. The unanimous opinion was in favour of revolt, unless Clapperton made it uncommonly worth their while to obey.
They were not destined to remain long in doubt, for the senior invaded their quarters that very evening.
“Just remember, you youngsters,” said he, “no one is going to the meeting to-morrow from our side.”
“Oh?”
“Any fellow who goes will get it hot, I promise him.”
“Ah! What about our conditions? What have you done about them?”
“Put them in the coal-scuttle; and I’ve a good mind to put all five of you there too, for your impudence.”
“Ah!”
The captain turned on his heel, with a final warning.
“That settles it, you chaps,” said Percy, when he had gone. “We go.”