There were many curious looks in the corners of the eyes of members of the squad.
Despite themselves Dick and Dave could feel themselves reddening.
But Laura Bentley was equal to the emergency.

"Here come the school's heroes---the fellows who keep Gridley's High School banner flying in the breeze," she laughed pleasantly.
Both Dodge and Bayliss started to answer, then closed their lips.
"Won't you please excuse us, boys ?" begged Laura, in her usual pleasant voice.

"Here are Dick and Dave, and Belle and I wish to speak with them." From some of the members of the football squad went up a promptly stifled gasp that sounded like a very distant rumble.
Dick and Dave, looking wholly rough and ready in their sweaters, padded trousers and heavy field shoes, stepped out of the marching formation as though obeying an order.
The chums looked almost uncouth, compared with the immaculate, dandyish pair, Dodge and Bayliss.

The latter, with so many amused glances turned their way, could only flush deeply, stammer, raise their hats and---fade away! The lesson was a needed and a remembered one.

Laura and Belle took their afternoon walks in peace thereafter..