"How did it all come about?" Frank wanted to know.
"Well, this millionaire—Mr. Lairman—used to attend school here years ago," explained Jack, who seemed to have all the traditions of Riverview at his tongue's end. "It was a different sort of a place then, and lots of rich men's sons came here. After years had passed, as they say in the novels, Mr. Lairman graduated, went away and amassed a fortune. Notice that word 'amassed.'"
"Some class to you," murmured Frank.
"Go on," urged Andy.
"More years passed," resumed Jack, "and Riverview fell upon dark days. Recently Dr. Doolittle, seeking help, chanced to think of Mr. Lairman. He wrote to him and asked him to take a half interest in the school, which, the doctor said, ought to be made to pay well if rightly managed. Mr. Lairman said he'd come on and investigate. He's here—what's the answer?"
"If he only does invest," murmured Ward, "it will be the best thing that could happen. I say, let's talk all about it."
"Not now," said Frank quickly.
"Why not?"
"Andy and I have to go out. Don't say anything about it, but we're going to cut. Thorny is away and it's safe."
"Got a date?" asked Jack.