That was, indeed, a busy Friday with the students of Scranton High.
Lessons had been tabooed entirely, for what was the use of trying to
hold the attention of the scholars, upon dry subjects when their
thoughts continually roamed afield, and seemed concerned only with
what great things were scheduled for the next afternoon? Still,
they gathered at school, which was a sort of general headquarters
where the various committees appointed could consult, and go forth
to the work assigned to their particular charge.

The girls were just as enthusiastic as the boys, and demanded equal
representation upon a number of the said committees, especially the
ones designed for the welcome and entertainment of the vast crowds
expected to be present from neighboring towns and villages.

It was going to be an event long to be remembered in Scranton, and
the town dressed in gala attire in honor of the occasion. Flags and
banners were being displayed as though a great wave of patriotism had
overwhelmed the place. If a stranger had suddenly dropped down on
the town just then he must have believed American soldiers were on
the fighting line across in France, and that news had been cabled over
to the effect that they had met the enemy in their first engagement,
and won a decisive victory.

The fairly good town brass band had promised to be on hand, and play
during the best part of the afternoon. Then there would be a host
of refreshment booths at which Scranton's fairest daughters would
preside, accompanied in each instance by a matron of mature years,
to lend dignity to the occasion. Here the good folks from Allandale,