The thought made him wretched. He was unfit for study, and wanted to get out to learn if any such report had actually been circulated.
On the reassembling of school he obtained a dismissal for the day on the plea of feeling ill. He was ill—very ill at ease in his mind, beset as it was with fears, and troubled over the sudden change in Nellie's manner toward him.
On his way from school he met Tim Short. He was glad to see him, and yet shuddered for fear he would say it was all up with them.
"What brings you here at this time?" finally asked Matthew.
"I was going up to school to see you."
"What has happened that you want to see me?" queried Matthew, dreading the answer.
"I have been discharged."
"Is that all?" drawing a long breath of relief.
"Isn't that enough?" asked Tim indignantly.
"It might be worse; but what were you discharged for?"