"We have been corresponding with those two gentlemen, but up to to-day
have not heard what they have decided to do. We are hoping that they
will go with us if they can leave their business. And that puts me in
mind. You will probably want to know about your Uncle Tom, and I
presume the twins would like to know, too."

"Yes, indeed!"

"Well, when the question of going to the front came up, your Uncle Tom
was just as eager to go as anybody, even though he was never an
officer during his days at Putnam Hall Military Academy. But it was
realized that some one must remain behind to take charge of The Rover
Company. More than this, your Uncle Tom is at the head of one of the
most important committees connected with the sale of Liberty Bonds,
and he is also at the head of one of the Red Cross committees, and
doing splendid work in both positions. The matter was talked over a
number of times, and finally, much, however, against his will, he
consented to withdraw in favor of your fathers. It is understood that
he is not only to look after the business, but that he will likewise
look after all of you young folks, including your sisters."

"And how soon do all of you expect to leave, if I may ask?" questioned
Jack.

"That will depend somewhat on circumstances. As soon as I receive any
word, I'll let you know. In the meanwhile, however, you may get some
word from home."

The two cadets continued to talk the matter over with Colonel Colby
for several minutes longer, and then, realizing that he was a very
busy man, they withdrew and hurried back to their own rooms.

"Now tell us all about it," said Andy. All of the outsiders except
Spouter and Gif had gone to their own quarters.

"Tell it straight," said Randy.

Sitting down, Jack and Fred did so, the others listening closely to
every word that was said. As they proceeded the twins showed their
satisfaction over the news.

"I knew dad would want to go just as much as anybody," declared Randy.

"So did I," added his twin. "As it is, I guess he'll have as much to
do as anybody."

"He'll certainly have his hands full, running The Rover Company and
being on those two committees, as well as looking after all of us
young folks."

"Just as if we couldn't look after ourselves!" exclaimed Fred.

"Oh, well, you know what I mean!"

"This gets me!" said Spouter. "I'd like to know what my father is
going to do. If he is going into the army, I'd like to know it."

"And I'd like