Frank knew Browning would not come alone, and he determined to be prepared. With this object in view, he gathered ten stout freshmen and had them come to his room early on the evening mentioned.
The curtains were drawn closely, and the arrivals were astonished to see a lot of Indian toggery piled up on tables and chairs, imitation buckskin suits, feathered headdresses, bows, arrows, tomahawks, and so forth. On Merriwell's table was a full supply of Indian red grease paint.
"Oh, say," gasped Ned Stover, his eyes bulging, "what's this--a powwow outfit?"
"This is the result of the idea you fellows gave me when you spoke of capturing scalps the other evening," laughed Frank. "Select your suits, gentlemen, and proceed to make up."
"Just you make up, and I will tell you what for afterward."
Merriwell's influence was sufficient to induce them to obey, and he aided them in the work.
"Blate grazes--I mean great blazes!" chuckled Rattleton, as he rubbed the war paint on his face. "Won't we make a bloodthirsty gang of roble ned men--er, noble red men!"
The boys aided each other, and Frank assisted them all.
"Aren't you going to make up, Merry?" asked Bandy Robinson.
"Well, I have it pretty straight that some sophs, led by Browning, are coming to take me out for an airing to-night."
"And he means to take them in," laughed Rattleton, arranging a war bonnet on his head.
"That's just it," nodded Frank. "If they come here, we'll be ready for them. If they do not come, we'll call on Mr. Browning."
"I'm afraid this is rather a serious matter," said Dismal Jones.
"Oh, don't begin to croak!" cried Rattleton. "Merriwell knows his business. Hurry up with your makeup. Can't tell how early the sophs will call."
So the boys hastened to complete their disguise, and a decidedly savage-looking band they were when all was completed. Frank surveyed them with satisfaction.
"Ah! my bold warriors!" he cried. "I am proud of you. To-night--to-night we deal the enemy a terrible and deadly blow."
"We're ready to hear what the layout is," eagerly said Ned Stover.
"Well, you are to retire to Robinson's room, which is exactly opposite this, and wait. I have two fellows outside to let me know when the enemy approaches and to take a hand in the game at the right time. When I whistle you are to make your way into this room if you have to break down the door. That's all."