“That was unfortunate.”
“Professor Teal,” Billy burst out suddenly, “I believe my watch was purposely set back, for it has never varied before nor since. Some one planned the whole thing for spite. How else could any one have known about it? We came home separately and—and—Not one moment of that night is one we need be ashamed of.”
“Then I shall have two or three of the teachers hear your report and the young woman’s—”
“Pardon me, Mr. Teal, I would never give her name.”
“Will she not wish to do this herself?”
“I think not. My silence will protect her. That’s what I fought Jim Barney for.” And when the man did not reply at once, Billy added impulsively, “Mr. Teal, in my place would you give away a girl?”
The man turned, laid a kindly hand on Billy’s shoulder, and smiled. “Billy, if I had the pluck I wouldn’t. But go home and tell your mother.”
“I—I had hoped not to worry her.”
“I’ve met your mother; and from what I know of her I think she’s worrying already. Moreover, she will have to know why you lose your honors, won’t she?”
“I—I guess you’re right. I’ll tell her.”