The Ripleys and the Deanes were neighbors.
The other girls, however, followed Laura, as, with quick, resolute step, she marched over to where the High School boys still lingered.
"Boys," began Laura, "Mr.Prescott has been accused of pretending about a hurt hand.

I know how he injured it; and, as he did it-----" "Please don't say any more, Miss Bentley," begged Dick, flushing.
"Yes, I shall," insisted Laura, quietly.

"It happened night before last.

Dick Prescott didn't want anything said about it, and neither did the police, so-----" "The police ?" chipped in several of the High School boys and girls.
"Yes, the police wanted it kept quiet, so they could have a chance to catch the fellow," Laura hastened on.

"But they've had time enough, now, to catch the rascal, if they're ever going to.