“Expel me? Why—why, you surely must be mistaken. I can’t imagine——”
“It’s something that’s in the afternoon papers. I haven’t been able to see it. I heard them talking about it. Miss Longwell’s taken all of them and given strict orders for us not to allow any more in the seminary until further notice from her.”
Bewilderment, then anxiety struggled in Dot’s face. Her thoughts flashed to her father.
“Are you sure, Mary? Did you hear what it was over? Was anything said?” she asked, trusting herself to speak finally.
“I only heard them mention your name, Miss Huntington, and—and something about disgrace,” said the maid. “I tried to catch what they accused you of, but Miss Longwell closed the door. I’m so sorry—if there’s any trouble.”
Dot thanked her and went back to Mrs. Liggs. The old lady studied her narrowly as she resumed her seat.
“It’s bad news, ain’t it, Dot? I can see it in your face, so don’t story to me, deary. And it’s about your father and—and Billy Gee, ain’t it?” She drew up her chair as she spoke, and took the girl’s hand affectionately in her own.
Dot told her what the maid had said, and Mrs. Liggs nodded comprehendingly.
“Well, that’s what it is—an account of Billy Gee and your dad, sweetheart,” she said. “The papers are full of it, and that’s why I come to-day to see you. I wanted you to know the truth.”
“But—but what has happened?” cried Dot, pale and starting to tremble.