There was no expression of chagrin or disappointment on the chief "outlaw's" face, as he turned away, exclaiming cheerfully:
"I thank you very much for the interview, professor."
Of course, through the agency of Benny Wilkins and several others, "Crackers'" visit to the principal immediately became known throughout the school.
"And Brown got thrown down flat, Mr. Editor of the 'Reflector,'" remarked Benny, addressing Dave Brandon.
"Please don't send me a three-column article about it, Benny. What did Brown want with the assembly room?"
"Oh, that's telling! Spies have to keep mum. I've gotten to be the greatest little sneak in the school, you know."
"It's all right so long as you do your spying in the open," laughed Dave.
That afternoon the regulars went through their practice as usual. But the boys who gathered on the field seemed to be much more interested in comparing notes than they did in watching the players.
"I reckon the big kick Alf Boggs spoke about is almost due," laughed Coach Steele. "Anyway, fellows, in spite of all this commotion, every one is steadily improving. I guess you've been a bit more disturbed than any of us really imagined."
"Perhaps so," said Bob. "I suppose it's like everything else; our nerves have now become accustomed to the strain."