Chester was under a cloud. It was known at the school that he had spent money so freely that his recklessness had left him “broke.” It was known that money had been refused him by his parents. It was known that he had resorted to desperate measures to “raise the wind.” He had pawned clothing and trinkets to get money to bet on the game between Fardale and New Era. Had New Era won, his condition would have been worse than ever; but the victory of the home team had eased the strain somewhat. Arlington realized that he was suspected, but he carried his head high and proclaimed his innocence.
Buckhart became interested in Dick’s work.
“What sort of a trap is it?” he asked.
“I’m fixing the door so that it will swing to whenever it is opened.”
“What of that?”
“I am going to put an extra spring-lock on it.”
“Oh, I see; you’re fixing it to keep the spook out.”
“No; I’m fixing it to keep the spook in!”
“Hey? Great horn spoon! What—what if—I don’t understand, anyhow.”
“I’ll explain.”