injuring the new girl; therefore she made no objection to what was
done. Indeed, she helped haze Rhoda Hammond, but more for the sake
of seeing that the Western girl was not taken advantage of in any
way than for the fun of the prank.

Nan did not know what Amelia and Laura had planned to do to the new
girl, but knowing the older girls as well as she did, she was sure
that nothing very bad was intended.

Somebody found an old striped silk parasol with some of the panels
split, and this was opened and given to Rhoda to carry. The line of
march was then taken up, with the victim directly behind the
Mistress of Ceremonies and Laura and Nan shutting off all chance of
Rhoda's escape.

The latter's cheeks were very red and her teeth gripped her lower
lip tightly. Bess mentioned, giggling, that Rhoda looked already as
though she were going through the fiery trial!

Nan realized it would have gone much better for the Western girl if
she had taken it smiling. She feared that Rhoda's attitude would
make the hazing more severe and more prolonged. She wished she knew
what was in the minds of Laura and Amelia Boggs regarding the new
girl.

The procession marched through Corridor Four to the rear stairway.
Amelia stalked ahead, carrying the broom, her "wand of office." The
stairway led threateningly near to Mrs. Cupp's room.

"Don't dare breathe even, while we are going down," hissed Laura.