`` Yes , sir ; all the Carleton boys are going over tonight . The moon is out , and the ice is good . We have to go in a body , or the Windsor fellows wo n't leave us alone . There 's safety in numbers . '' `` Pretty hard lines when boys have to go six miles for a skate , '' commented Mr. Rogers . `` Well , it 's that or nothing , '' laughed Ned . `` There is n't a saucerful of ice any nearer , except that small pond in Old Dutcher 's field , behind his barn . And you know Old Dutcher wo n't allow a boy to set foot there . He says they would knock down his fences climbing over them , and like as not set fire to his barn . '' `` Old Dutcher was always a crank , '' said Mr. Rogers , `` and doubtless will be to the end . By the way , I heard a rumour to the effect that you are soon going to take a course at the business college in Trenton . I hope it 's true . '' Ned 's frank face clouded over . `` I 'm afraid not , sir . The truth is , I guess Mother ca n't afford it . Of course , Aunt Ella has very kindly offered to board me free for the term , but fees , books , and so on would require at least fifty dollars . I do n't expect to go . '' `` That 's a pity . Ca n't you earn the necessary money yourself ? '' Ned shook his head .
`` Not much chance for that XXXXX Carleton , Mr. Rogers .
By at behind except for in nearer of on over