There was a rush of feet outside, and Silas Blossom came bursting into the room. “Fellows,” he said, excitedly; “you had better make a sneak, and you must get out by the back way.” “What is it?” asked several. “What’s the matter?” “Is it another faculty scare?” demanded Nash. “No, but the faculty has a spy who is piping us off.” “Is that it?” “Sure.” “Who is the spy?” “Rudge.” “The proctor?” “Yes.” “Where is he?” “In front of the house, keeping watch of the door. He is taking down the names of everybody who comes in or goes out.” “And there isn’t a doubt but he will report us if he sees us,” said Frank. “What business has he on York Street? It strikes me it would be a good time to give Mr. Digby Rudge a lesson.” “What sort of a lesson?” “Oh, one that he will not forget--one that will cause him to attend to his business in the future and let things outside the college grounds and buildings alone.” “We are with you, Merry,” declared several. “What is your little game?” Then Frank proceeded to unfold his plan. CHAPTER XXX. YOUNG KIDNAPERS. Back of Mrs. Henderson’s house was a yard that was surrounded by a high board fence. Over this fence several dark figures were cautiously making their way, having left the house by the back door. Frank was in the lead, and he carried a blanket he had taken from the room of one of the freshmen. The blanket had been donated “for the good of the cause” by the enthusiastic freshman who had listened to Frank’s scheme, which was now being carried out. Having climbed to the top of the fence, aided by others behind, Merriwell let himself down by his hands on the other side and dropped. Then he picked up the blanket, which was in a closely rolled bundle, that had been flung over in advance, and whistled a low signal to the others. They followed him in turn, their blood warm at the thought of the danger and the adventure before them. They were Diamond, Rattleton, Browning and Griswold, making five in the entire party. Others had begged to take part in the adventure, but Merriwell had declared that five was the greatest number that could work to advantage without danger of attracting attention. Browning groaned as he clambered to the top of the fence and hung balanced there. “The fellow who follows Merriwell wants to take out a life insurance,” he hoarsely whispered. Then, with some difficulty, he let himself down and dropped heavily to the ground. When all were over, Frank led them from the yard, and soon they were on the street. “Griswold,” said Frank, “make a hustle for a cab, and bring it to the corner nearest Mrs. Henderson’s. If you are not lively, we’ll be there ahead of you.” “O. K.,” said Danny. “I won’t be more than a year.” Away he scudded. “Now,” said Frank, “if Rudge is where Blossom said, we’ll have him inside of fifteen minutes. Come on.” They followed him, and soon he led them round into York Street.