CHAPTER XXI
THE FANCY DRESS BALL
"Well, Dick," remarked Paul Drew, one afternoon, as he and his roommate came in from drill, "I see you're on the ball committee."
"What ball, and what committee?"
"The fancy dress ball, if I have to go into all the details. You know the academy has one every year, and it's a swell affair, let me tell you. Lights, gay music, pretty girls"
"Especially pretty girls," said Dick with a smile. "But what committee am I on?"
"Arrangements. Didn't you see the list posted in the mess hall? I don't envy you. There will be lots to do."
"Suppose you take pity on my ignorance, and go a little more into details."
Whereupon Paul did, describing the affair at length. It was to take place, as usual, in February, and this time would be held on Washington's birthday.
"Maybe we won't have fun!" exclaimed Paul. "There'll be all sorts of costumes, and the decora-
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