Frank shook his head. He did not know what to say.
There was a murmur of voices on the other side of a neglected hedge, much in want of trimming, which bordered a walk that led up to the main building. As Andy and Frank entered the opening in the natural fence they came face to face with a group of lads, evidently students. Frank addressed them.
"Is this Riverview Hall?" he asked, hoping he might be mistaken.
"Yes—this is the place—what's left of it," replied a tall lad, in the centre of the group. He spoke listlessly.
"We're newcomers," added Andy. "We've just come, but—er—that is—"
He stopped in some confusion.
"It seems as if there was something the matter with the place," broke in Frank. "What's the trouble? Has the school been closed suddenly for some reason?" He almost hoped it had.
"Oh, no, school's going on," replied another lad, indifferently chewing on a blade of grass. "The term has just opened. But it's this way always—no fun here. I wish I didn't have to come, but dad thinks it's all right."
"Why—what is the matter?" insisted the elder Racer lad.
"Oh, you'll find out soon enough, if you stay," was the significant answer. "Won't he, fellows?"