Molly thought her labors were over for that night , and soon went to bed , tired with her first attempts . But toward morning she was wakened by the hoarse breathing of the boy , and was forced to patter away to Miss Bat 's room , humbly asking for the squills , and confessing that the prophecy had come to pass . `` I knew it ! Bring the child to me , and do n't fret . I 'll see to him , and next time you do as I say , '' was the consoling welcome she received as the old lady popped up a sleepy but anxious face in a large flannel cap , and shook the bottle with the air of a general who had routed the foe before and meant to do it again . Leaving her little responsibility in Miss Bat 's arms , Molly retired to wet her pillow with a few remorseful tears , and to fall asleep , wondering if real missionaries ever killed their pupils in the process of conversion . So the girls all failed in the beginning ; but they did not give up , and succeeded better next time , as we shall see . Chapter IX . The Debating Club `` Look here , old man , we ought to have a meeting . Holidays are over , and we must brace up and attend to business , '' said Frank to Gus , as they strolled out of the schoolyard one afternoon in January , apparently absorbed in conversation , but in reality waiting for a blue cloud and a scarlet feather to appear on the steps . `` All right . When , where , and what ? '' asked Gus , who was a man of few words . `` To-night , our house , subject , ` Shall girls go to college with us ? ' Mother said we had better be making up our minds , because every one is talking about it , and we shall have to be on one side or the other , so we may as well settle it now , '' answered Frank , for there was an impression among the members that all vexed questions would be much helped by the united eloquence and wisdom of the club . `` Very good ; I 'll pass the word and be there . Hullo , Neddy ! The D.C. meets to-night , at Minot 's , seven sharp . Co-ed , & c. , '' added Gus , losing no time , as a third boy came briskly round the corner , with a little bag in his hand . `` I 'll come .
Got home an hour earlier to-night , and thought I 'd look you up as I went by , '' responded Ed Devlin , as he took possession of the XXXXX post , with a glance toward the schoolhouse to see if a seal-skin cap , with a long , yellow braid depending therefrom , was anywhere in sight .
Bat Frank Mother fall first in night right squills third