her silence; she might have feared his arrest at the
hands of the chief of police. Johnny quailed. He
knew his aunt Janet to be rather a brave sort of
woman. If she had fears, she must have had reason
for them. He might even now be arrested. Suppose
Lily did tell. He had a theory that girls usually
told. He began to speculate concerning the horrors
of prison. Of course he would not be executed,
since his aunt was obviously very far from being
killed, but he might be imprisoned for a long term.

Johnny went home. He did not kick the dust
any more. He walked very steadily and staidly.
When he came in sight of the old Colonial mansion,
with its massive veranda pillars, he felt chilly. How-
ever, he went on. He passed around to the south
door and entered and smelled shortcake. It would
have smelled delicious had he not had so much on
his mind. He looked through the hall, and had a
glimpse of his uncle Jonathan in the study, writing.
At the right of the door was his father's office. The
door of that was open, and Johnny saw his father
pouring things from bottles. He did not look at
Johnny. His mother crossed the hall. She had
on a long white apron, which she wore when making
her famous cream shortcakes. She saw Johnny,
but merely observed, "Go and wash your face and
hands, Johnny; it is nearly supper-time."

Johnny went up-stairs. At the upper landing he