On the Monday afternoon succeeding the preliminary meeting at the academy, about thirty boys assembled in this hall, pursuant to a notice which had been given at school and posted up at the tavern and post-office.

At half-past two Frank entered, accompanied by Mr. Morton.

Some of the boys were already acquainted with him, and came up to speak.  He had a frank, cordial way with boys, which secured their favor at first sight.

“Well, boys,” said he pleasantly, “I believe I am expected to make soldiers of you.”

“Yes, sir,” said Charles Reynolds respectfully:  “I hope we shall learn readily and do credit to your instructions.”

“I have no fear on that score,” was the reply.  “Perhaps you may have some business to transact before we commence our lessons.  If so, I will sit down a few minutes and wait till you are ready.”

A short business meeting was held, organized as before.

John Haynes reported that he had spoken to his father, and the question of allowing the boys the use of the muskets belonging to the town would be acted upon at the next meeting of the Selectmen.  Squire Haynes thought that the request would be granted.

“What are we going to do. this afternoon?” asked Robert Ingalls.

“I can answer that question, Mr. Chairman,” said Henry Morton.  “We are not yet ready for muskets.  I shall have to drill you first in the proper position of a soldier, and the military step.  Probably it will be a week before I shall wish to place muskets into your hands.  May I inquire how soon there will be a meeting of the Selectmen?”

John Haynes announced that the next meeting would be held in less than a week.

“Then there will be no difficulty as to the muskets,” said Mr. Morton.

Wilbur Summerfield reported that he had extended an invitation to boys not connected with the academy to join the company.  Several were now present.  Dick Bumstead, though not able to attend that day, would come to the next meeting.  He thought they would be able to raise a company of fifty boys.

This report was considered very satisfactory.

Tom Wheeler arose and inquired by what name the new company would be called.

“I move,” said Robert Ingalls, “that we take the name of the Rossville Home Guards.”

“If the enemy should invade Rossville, you’d be the first to run,” sneered John Haynes.

“Not unless I heard it before you,” was the quick reply.

There was a general laugh, and cries of “Bully for you, Bob!” were heard.

“Order!” cried the chairman, pounding the table energetically.  “Such disputes cannot be allowed.  I think we had better defer obtaining a name for our company till we find how well we are likely to succeed.”

This proposal seemed to be acquiesced in by the boys generally.  The business meeting terminated, and Mr. Morton was invited to commence his instructions.