Ralph at once threw himself into a position of self defense, and
at the same time shouted out the call for assistance so well known
to all the sons of Columbia High.




CHAPTER IV

TREACHERY IN THE CAMP


"Columbiad! Columbiad!"

It was the call for assistance, known to, and respected by, every
boy who loved the name of Columbia High School--a rallying cry in
time of emergency, when the enemy had carried the ball down close
to the home goal, and almost supernatural efforts were needed, in
order to beat back the rising tide.

Never did the old familiar yell of "Hey, Rube!" appeal more
positively to canvasmen connected with a traveling circus, when
set upon by rowdies in some wayside town, than did this shout.

Ralph had no time for more. From three sides he found himself
attacked by unknown foes. Some had their hats drawn far over their
faces, in order to conceal their identity, while others had gone
still further, and tied handkerchiefs over the lower half, with
the same purpose in view.