"Why not? If you are friends, it will do no harm."

"Mrs. Stanhope is -- er -- is not feeling well, and I will not have her
disturbed by a headstrong youth like you."

"We'll see about that. If you --"

Dick broke off short, for just then a voice he knew well floated
down into the kitchen from upstairs.

"Who is talking down there? Is that you, Dick?" It was Dora
speaking, in a voice full of excitement.

"Yes, Dora, it is I -- and Tom. We have caught Josiah Crabtree here
in your kitchen."

"Oh!" The girl gave a little scream. "What a villain! Can you
hold him?"

"We can try," answered Dick. He turned to Crabtree. "I reckon
your game is up, old man."

"Let me go!" growled the former teacher fiercely, and as Dick
advanced upon him he thrust the lighted candle full into the
youth's face. Of course Dick had to fall back, not wishing to be
burnt, and a second later the candle went out leaving the room in
total darkness.

But now Tom sprang forward, bearing Crabtree to the floor. Over