My mother’s remark was interrupted by a noise in the garden; and, fearful that my poor father had come home in a helpless condition, I went out to ascertain the cause of it. It was not my father; but I heard sounds which indicated that several persons were running away from the house. I ran to the fence, and saw three boys hastening up the road towards the Institute. If I was not much mistaken, Waddie Wimpleton was one of them; and I concluded that he was still intent upon punishing me for calling him a liar.
As I was about to go into the house, I discovered another form in the darkness, walking down the road. I knew the step. It was my father. I was very thankful that he was able to walk, though I noticed that his step was a little unsteady.
CHAPTER XVIII.
WADDIE’S MISTAKE.
I hastened into the house, and told my mother that father was coming. She bestowed upon me a glance so full of anxiety that I comprehended the question she desired to ask, and I added that he walked tolerably well.
“Was it he that made the noise we heard?” she inquired.
“No; some of the students have been around here, and I think I saw Waddie,” I replied.
“What do they want?”
“I don’t know; but I suppose they wish to see me.”
“Do be careful, Wolfert.”