Mr. Hayes continued: "The situation briefly is this: We are almost
hopelessly in debt, and--"

"How much?" enquired Neil Fraser, briskly interrupting.

"Seven hundred dollars," replied Mr. Hayes, "and further--"

"Five hundred dollars," said Mr. Innes.

"I have examined the treasurer's books," said Mr. Hayes in the calmly
triumphant tone of one sure of his position, "and I find the amount to
be seven hundred dollars, and therefore--"

"Five hundred dollars," repeated Mr. Innes, gazing into space.

"Seven hundred dollars, I say," snapped Mr. Hayes.

"Five hundred dollars," reiterated Mr. Innes, without further comment.

"I say I have examined the books. The arrears are seven hundred
dollars."

"Five hundred dollars," said Mr. Innes calmly.

The youngsters at the back snickered.

"Go to it!" said Harry Hobbs, under his breath.

Even the minister, who was sitting immediately behind Harry, could not
restrain a smile.