red Mr. Eldridge.

There was no way out of it. The principal left with them. In a
few minutes there was a call for Mr. Drake. Then two of the women
teachers were sent for. Finally, Dick Prescott and three or four
of the other boys were summoned. On the complaint of a very angry
parent Superintendent Eldridge was holding a very thorough
investigation. Many statements were asked for and listened to.

"I think we have heard enough, haven't we, Mr. Eldridge?" asked
the elder Bristow, at last. "Shall I state my view of the affair
now?"

"You may," nodded the superintendent.

"It is plain enough to me," snorted Mr. Bristow, "that this principal
hasn't self-control enough to be charged with teaching discipline
to a lot of spirited boys. His example is bad for them---continually
bad. However, that is for the Board of Education to determine.
My son will not come to school to-day, but he will attend to-morrow.
As the first step toward righting to-day's affair I shall expect
Mr. Cantwell to address, before the whole student body, an ample
and satisfactory apology to my son. I shall be present to hear
that apology myself."

"If it is offered," broke in Principal Cantwell, sardonically,
but Superintendent Eldridge held up a hand to check him.

"If you don't offer the apology, to-morrow morning, and do it
properly," retorted Mr. Bristow, "I shall go to my lawyer and
instruct him to get out a warrant charging you with felonious
assault. That is all I have to say, sir. Mr. Eldridge, I thank
you, sir, for your very prompt and kind help. Good morning, all!"

"At the close of the session the principal wishes to see Mr. Prescott,"
read Mr. Cantwell from the platform just before school was dismissed
that afternoon.

Dick waited in some curiosity.

"Mr. Prescott, you write for 'The Blade,' don't you?" asked Mr.
Cantwell.

"Sometimes, sir."

"Then, Mr. Prescott, please understand that I forbid you to write
anything for publication concerning this morning's happenings."

Dick remained silent.

"You will not, will you?"

"That, Mr. Cantwell, is a matter that seems to rest between the
editor and myself."

"But I have forbidden it," insisted the principal, in surprise.

"That is a matter, sir, about which you will have to see the editor.
Here at school, Mr. Cantwell, I am under your orders. At 'The
Blade' office I work under Mr. Pollock's instructions."

The principal looked as though he were going to grow ang