A theory concerning this matter had suggested itself to Fred, and he was working it out like a young logician.
"Suppose," he continued, "Mr. Simmons should have forced the boys to do something toward paying him, and Matthew dare not speak to his father and mother about it, what would have been the result?"
"I can hardly imagine," returned the doctor.
"I think they would have got it from some other source by some other means," said Nellie.
Fred's face brightened. This was the answer that seemed natural to him, and he was pleased that Nellie should be the one to give it.
"That is my idea," he replied.
"Why, Fred, you talk exactly like a lawyer," remarked Mrs. Dutton.
"Oh, I don't know about that," he laughed, "but this paper has strengthened a suspicion that I have had for a little time—strengthened it so much that I feel almost convinced I am right since hearing what the doctor says about this matter."