that called for remonstrance from the squire; and he rapped his cane
vigorously on the door. This had the effect of restoring order, and also
of bringing punishment upon the entire class for the remainder of the
afternoon.

"To think," began Miss Ellis severely, on returning to the room, "that I
should be so disgraced. Not enough to have one or two girls accused of--
of a crime--but that the rest should so misbehave before an officer of
Dalton! I shall be obliged to send to the president of the Board;
something I have never before had to do. But this matter must be
thoroughly investigated. I am very sorry, Miss Dale, that you should be
implicated, sorry for your father's sake. But it all comes of
associating with girls who--who will not be governed by those in proper
authority," and the teacher adjusted her glasses, satisfied that she at
least held a position as head of Dalton School with dignity and
"authority" that such an office required.

Poor Dorothy! Her aching head was now bowed on the desk before her, and
her sobs were so pitiful, even the most thoughtless girl in the room was
silent and sad to see her weeping so.

Alice MacAllister sat upright at her desk. Her strong face assumed a
daring expression--that of defiance. Alice was counted a good-natured
girl. Something of a romp, perhaps, for her companions often called her
"Mack" and she showed a preference for the boyish nickname.

But to see Dorothy weeping so, accused unjustly!

Alice raised her hand for permission to speak. Miss Ellis signed for her
to go on.