Of course, if Rip gives us the black scowl we'll have to conclude that no help is wanted." It was tried, however, at recess.

Purcell went about it with the tact that often comes to the easy going and big hearted.
Soon Purcell had Dick and Dave with Fred and himself.

Then the other chums drifted up.

Two or three other fellows came along.
After some sulkiness at first Fred talked eagerly, if nervously.
On the whole, he seemed grateful.
When Dick reached home that day he felt staggered with astonishment.
Waiting for him was a note from Lawyer Ripley, asking the boy to be at the latter's office at half-past two.
"I shall take it as a very great favor," the note ran on, "and, from what I know of you, I feel certain that you will be glad to aid me in a matter that is of vast importance to me." "What on earth is coming ?" wondered Dick.

But he made up his mind to comply with the request.
Promptly to the minute Dick reached the street door of the office building.