"I will! I will!" said Flockley earnestly.
The Rovers and Stanley Browne were as good as their word. On the following day they had another interview with the head of the college and spoke of Flockley.
"Well, if you desire it, he can remain," said Doctor Wallington. "As for Koswell and Larkspur, I doubt if they wish to return, since they have not yet shown themselves. You can prosecute them if you wish."
"No, we don't want to do that," said Dick. "We have talked it over, and we think, for the honor of Brill, the least said the better."
"That conclusion does you much credit, and I feel greatly relieved," said the head of the college. He turned to Tom. "You are, of course, reinstated, Thomas, and I shall see to it that the marks placed against your name are wiped out. I sincerely trust that you and Professor Sharp will allow bygones to be bygones, and will make a new beginning."
"I'm willing," answered Tom. And a little later he entered one of the classrooms and he and Professor Sharp shook hands. After school Professor Blackie came up and shook hands all around.
"I am glad to know you are exonerated," said that professor. "This has taught me a lesson, to take nothing for granted," he added.
When the truth became known many of the students flocked around the Rovers and Stanley and Songbird, and congratulated them on the outcome of the affair. Flockley did not show himself for a long time, excepting at meals and during class hours.
"He feels his position keenly," said Dick. "Well, I hope he turns over a new leaf."
"A telegram for Richard Rover," said one of the teachers to the boys a few days later.