"Isn't this an unfortunate occurrence, boys?" he said; "I can scarcely believe that we all assembled here for study only yesterday morning. I want to thank you for your work last night."
"I'm very glad that we were able to do some good," said Dave. "How long do you think it will take to repair the damage, professor?"
"Months," replied the president, with something like a groan. "And I doubt whether we shall be able to find any place to hold the exercises."
Then, with a bow, he turned, and walked slowly away.
Soon after this, the group broke up, and, at an appointed hour next day, met in the hay-loft of Mr. Somers' barn.
Peter Lexington's ebony-hued countenance wore a broad grin, as the boys began to come in. Hackett and Nat Wingate arrived last.
Nat seemed to have lost some of the dashing air which formerly characterized him. His face was pale and drawn, while his movements lacked their accustomed energy.
"Fellows, this is a great scheme you've gotten up," he exclaimed, enthusiastically.
"Yes! My father says it's all right," declared Bob Somers.
"And they haven't been able to find a hall large enough," added Hackett, with a grin. "Professor Ivins told me so this afternoon."