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 such knowledge as I might obtain about him. I'll own up that I did mean to tell you, for I wished you to know just what sort of a person he is. You're altogether too interested in him, Janet, and I care too much for you to see you fooled by a fellow of his character."

She tossed her head.

"I think your motive was purely personal."

"Janet!" he exclaimed reproachfully.

"I can't help it! I can't help thinking so! I won't believe Tom Locke is deceptive, dishonest, crooked; and it seems that is what he must be if he, a college man, is playing here for money under a false name."

"Just so. And, as he happens to be coming down the street this minute, we'll put him to the test. Will you let me ask him a few questions before you?"

She had turned swiftly to look; her face lost some color as she saw Locke, accompanied by two other players, all in uniforms, coming that way. They had been at the field for morning practice, and, after making a cut across lots, were following that street back into town.

As Janet hesitated, doubtful, and ready to hurry into the house, King again sought permission to interrogate the man while she listened.