“Yes, and make Tom Rover lose his position as lieutenant, too,” added Flapp.

The term at Putnam Hall was now drawing to a close and it was not long before the semi-annual examinations began.  All of the Rovers worked hard over their papers, and with more or less success.  Sam came out at the top of his class, while Tom stood third in his grade, and Dick third in a still higher class.  The boys lost no time in sending the news home, and received word back that not only their father, but also Uncle Randolph and Aunt Martha, were much pleased with the result.

“Now we’ll feel as if we deserve an outing,” said Tom, and Sam and Dick agreed with him.

It was on the following morning that Captain Putnam made an announcement that filled all of the cadets with interest.

“You are all anxious, I know, to learn where the annual encampment is to be held,” said he, during general assembly.  “I am pleased to be able to announce that I have arranged to hold it at Pine Island, a fine bit of ground, located close to the south shore of Bass Lake.  The lake is situated about thirty-five miles from here, and we will make a two-days’ march to the spot, stopping on the road over night, in true soldier style, weather permitting.”

“Hurrah!” burst out half a dozen cadets.

“Three cheers for Captain Putnam!” called out Tom, and they were given with a will.

“I am told that the lake is an excellent one for fishing and for bathing, and I have already engaged six boats which the cadets will be allowed to use from time to time.”

Again there was a cheer and with it a loud clapping of hands.

“While in camp you may play such games as you please, during off time, and we will see if we cannot arrange for contests at swimming, rowing, and running, and to the winners suitable prizes shall be given.”

“Hurrah for Captain Putnam!” came the cry once more, and again a cheer arose.

“When will we start, captain?”

“Wish we were going right now!”

“We shall start Monday morning,” was the answer.  “To-morrow we will get out our tents and camping outfits and see that all are in first-class order.  It is perhaps needless to add that during this encampment the officers will be in authority during all but off hours, when myself and my assistants will take charge.”

This ended the talk, and the students immediately broke up into little groups to discuss the good news.

“We ought to have just a boss good time while in camp,” cried Sam.  “Think of living in tents, and having nothing to do but fish, and swim, and make yourself comfortable.”

“Sam must be getting lazy,” returned Dick.  “But I grant you I think it will be first-class myself.”

About the only pupil who did not relish going into camp was William Philander Tubbs.

“It will be beastly to live out in the open, on the ground,” said Tubbs.  “Supposing it should rain?  Why, we’ll all get wet!”