“What will you do?”
“I am going to say that I gave it to you and that I want you to keep it.”
There was no time for further talk. Dick promised to come to the hotel at a certain hour, so while Fardale Military Academy was rejoicing that evening he slipped away and set out for the village.
He was well satisfied with what the day had brought forth. Franklin had departed crestfallen, knowing that Dick would keep his word and investigate the charge of professionalism against several of her team. Had she been victorious she would not have cared so much, but now she knew a close investigation would result in the breaking off of athletic contests between the two schools, and she would be left with the bitter taste of defeat in her mouth.
Dick arrived at the hotel and had his card taken to Mrs. Arlington. There was some delay, following which the lady came sweeping haughtily into the parlor where Dick waited.
“I presume, sir,” she said frigidly, “you have come to your senses and decided to return that locket.”
“I concluded to come here and talk the matter over with you, Mrs. Arlington,” said Dick, perfectly at his ease.
“Have you brought the locket?”
“I keep it with me all the time.”
“I will take it.”