The cheers were given with gusto. So much noise was made, in fact, that Mrs. Prescott came to open the door.

Something in his mother's face—-a look of dread and alarm—-spoiled the cheering for Dick. As soon as he could he got inside the house.

Little did the young freshman suspect the ordeal that awaited him here.

CHAPTER VIII

ONLY A "SUSPENDED" FRESHMAN NOW

"What's wrong mother? Have you heard——-" the boy began, as soon as the door was closed.

"Yes, Richard."

"But, mother, I am inno——-"

"Oh, Dick, of course you are! But this fearful suspicion is enough to kill one who loves you. Come! Your father is in the store. Dr. Thornton is upstairs. He and—-and—-a policeman.

"Policeman!" gasped Dick, paling instantly. "Do they mean to——-"