THE ESCAPE As the prisoners quietly took their places at the table Tobey, who had been drinking hard, decided to make a speech.

His face was badly swollen and he could only see through a slit in one eye, so severe had been the beating administered by Wampus earlier in the day; but the fellow had grit, in spite of his other unmanly qualities, and his imperturbable good humor had scarcely been disturbed by the punishment the Canadian had inflicted upon him.
"Ladies," said he, "and gentlemen--which of course includes our respected male guests--I am happy to inform you that the programme for the First Annual Hades Ranch Ball has finally been arranged, and the dances apportioned in a fair and impartial manner.

The Grand March will take place promptly at seven o'clock, led by Miss Doyle and Knuckles, who has won the privilege by throwing four sixes.

I am to follow with Miss De Graf, and the rest will troop on behind with the privilege of looking at the ladies.

If anyone dares to create disorder his dances with the young ladies will be forfeited.