While Cranny attended to his mission the others waited outside. The view they saw was characteristic of border towns. Saddled horses were hitched to posts at intervals along the sidewalks. A buckboard and other vehicles, some of the most primitive sort, formed a little group near by. On both sides of the wide, tree-shaded streets were hotels or stores of various sorts, but the most conspicuous building, both on account of its design and the flaming posters which adorned its front, was a moving picture theater.
When Cranny rejoined them with a peculiar look of satisfaction on his face, they wandered across the street to study the place at closer range.
“H’m, looks kind of good to me,” remarked Tom. “Let’s take it in to-night.”
“Do just let’s,” chortled Dick.
“Good idea,” approved Cranny.
“The ayes have it, so we’ll go,” declared Bob.
Arriving at the hotel they found Professor Kent and Edmunds engaged in conversation, and a few words which the lads overheard before the others were aware of their presence made Cranny Beaumont’s face light up with pleasure.
“Yes, sir! He’s a smart one; writes from dictation like a streak, and scarcely ever makes a error.”
“Bully for you, Cranny,” said Bob softly.
After taking their evening meal in the cool patio, and writing letters home, the crowd set out for the motion-picture theater.