He saw that the Virginian did not believe him.
"Just a word, Mr.Dodge," put in Anstey.

"As we are near the end of the barracks year I will not ask for a new roommate.

But when we come back from the summer encampment I will see to it that my roommate is some one else." Bert Dodge paled, then flushed crimson.

"Am I entitled to a reason for that, Anstey ?" "Mister Anstey, if you please, now and always hereafter." "Certainly, Mr.Anstey.May I ask your reason for desiring a new roommate ?" "I think I need not give my reason, Mr.Dodge," and Anstey turned his back.
Bert Dodge got out of the room somehow and made his way back to the hospital ward through the back door.

Dick Prescott never learned what the "joke" was.