6 GOING DOWN!

CHAPTER 6 GOING DOWN! STERMONT HOSPITAL Elementary Alexander looked up at the hospital. Right away, he noticed how this Stermont Elementary was better than the other one: 1. The lights were on. 2. It hadn't been knocked over by bulldozers. A man sat at the front desk, writing on a clipboard. He had frizzy white hair that stood straight up. Alexander read the nameplate on the desk. MR. HOARSELY SECRETARY

"Excuse me," said Alexander. "Eep!" Mr. Hoarsely said. "You scared me!" "Sorry," said Alexander. "I'm new here, and, uh..." "Oh, you must be Alexander." Mr. Hoarsely checked his clipboard. "Well, look at that... happy sort-of-birthday." He checked his watch. His eyebrows shot up. "You're late! And filthy! And why are you only wearing one shoe?"

"Stermont Elementary students must wear both shoes at all times— school policy!" said Mr. Hoarsely. He pulled a pair of green galoshes out of the Lost & Found. "Quick put these on before the principal sees you!" Alexander took the galoshes. They looked like little froggies. "I can't wear these!" he said. "Ms. Vanderpants will flip if she sees a sock- footed student!" said Mr. Hoarsely. Alexander made a sour face and pulled just the left galosh over his sock.

"Perfect. Now, let's find your class," said Mr. Hoarsely, checking his clipboard. "Sixth graders are in the Emergency Room.... Kindergartners are in Brain Surgery Ah— here you are!" He pointed to the elevators. "Press M to get to your classroom." Alexander stepped into the elevator and pressed M. The elevator went down several floors and then opened. Alexander read the sign on the wall: MORGUE* Morgue? thought Alexander, stepping out of the elevator. But that's where hospitals keep dead bodies!