`` Well , it 's that or nothing , '' laughed Ned . `` There is n't a saucerful of ice any nearer , except that small pond in Old Dutcher 's field , behind his barn . And you know Old Dutcher wo n't allow a boy to set foot there . He says they would knock down his fences climbing over them , and like as not set fire to his barn . '' `` Old Dutcher was always a crank , '' said Mr. Rogers , `` and doubtless will be to the end . By the way , I heard a rumour to the effect that you are soon going to take a course at the business college in Trenton . I hope it 's true . '' Ned 's frank face clouded over . `` I 'm afraid not , sir . The truth is , I guess Mother ca n't afford it . Of course , Aunt Ella has very kindly offered to board me free for the term , but fees , books , and so on would require at least fifty dollars . I do n't expect to go . '' `` That 's a pity . Ca n't you earn the necessary money yourself ? '' Ned shook his head . `` Not much chance for that in Carleton , Mr. Rogers . I 've cudgelled my brains for the past month trying to think of some way , but in vain . Well , here is the crossroad , so I must get off . Thank you for the drive , sir . '' `` Keep on thinking , Ned , '' advised Mr. Rogers , as the lad jumped out .
`` Perhaps you 'll hit on some plan yet to earn that XXXXX , and if you do -- well , it will prove that you have good stuff in you . ''
Aunt barn board brains drive fences money nothing sir thinking