Page:Dave Porter at Oak Hall.djvu/103

Rh for the hired help. Above the classrooms were the dormitories, divided into quarters for four, six, or eight students. On the lower floor were also a reception room and several offices, and above them the sleeping rooms of the owner of the school and his various assistants. The entire school was finished in hardwood, well polished, and everything was scrupulously clean.

"Here we are!" cried Roger, as he leaped out of the stage. "Come on, Dave. There is Dr. Clay now."

Dave followed his companion, and the other boys also sprang out. Nearly every one rushed up to the doctor to shake hands.

Doctor Hasmer Clay proved to be a man well along in years, with iron-gray hair and sharp gray eyes. His face was kindly, but stern, and it was easy to see that he was not one to permit any nonsense during study hours. Yet he was a man who wanted his pupils to have recreation, and he often went out to view their games and their exercises in the gymnasium, or for a quiet sail on the river. It was rumored that in his day he had been a great football player, and this he did not deny.

"How do you do, Doctor?" said Roger, grasping the hand extended to him.

"Very well, thank you, Master Morr," was the answer. "Welcome back to Oak Hall. And whom have we here?"