"That is something over which you really have no control," Dick
replied slowly, though not offensively. "I take all my orders
from my employers."

"You young mucker!" cried Bert, in exasperation. "You print anything
about our family misfortunes, and I'll thrash you until you can't
see."

"I won't answer that," Dick replied, "Until you make the attempt.
But, see here, Dodge, you should try to keep cool, and as close
to the line of gentlemanly speech and conduct as possible."

"A nice one you are, to lecture me on that subject," jeered Bert
Dodge. "You---only a mucker! The son of-----"

"Stop!" roared Dick, his face reddening. He advanced, his fists
clenched. "If you're going to say anything against my father
or mother, Bert Dodge, then stop before you say it! Before I
break your neck!"

"Stop, both of you," interjected Hemingway, springing between
the white-faced High School boys. "No blows are going to be struck
while members of the police department are around. Dodge, of
course, you're upset and nervous, but you're not acting the way
a gentleman should, even under such circumstances."

"Then drive that fellow away from here!" commanded Bert.

"I can't," confessed the officer. "He is breaking no law, and