“Mr. Appleby states that he himself saw, and recognized, one of our students about his barrio shortly before it was discovered that the horses were poisoned.”

“How does he know?” asked one of the Seniors—­a privileged character, evidently, for he was not rebuked.

“He says he recognized a peculiar colored sweater the student wore, and also his manner of walking.  This student was seen near the barn, and when Mr. Appleby hurried out to warn him away, the individual ran off, dropping a small package.  This Mr. Appleby picked up, not paying much attention to it at the time.  But later, when he learned that his horses had been poisoned, he gave this package to a veterinarian.  It was found to contain a powder, one ingredient of which was cyanide of potassium, a deadly poison, but which, blended with other things, may only cause severe illness.  It was this poison that was administered to the horses.”

Once more came a murmur from the students.  It was hushed as Doctor Meredith went on.

“Mr. Appleby insists on an investigation,” said the head master, “and I must admit that he has several points in his favor.  I have told him I would bring the matter before you.  I might add that the sweater worn by the person the farmer saw was dropped in flight.  I—­er—­I have it here,” and Doctor Meredith unwrapped a small bundle.  He held up to view a sweater—­of a deep purple tint, with yellow stripes on it.  It was an atrociously-hued garment, such as only a student would dare wear.

Once more that gasp, for several of the students at once recognized the garment.  There were but two in the college.  One like it had been worn by Tom Fairfield, and the other by Sam Heller.

“Does—­er does anyone wish to claim this sweater?” proceeded the doctor, “and—­er—­and state how it came to be on the premises of Mr. Appleby?”

In spite of their self-control, nearly all eyes were turned in Tom’s direction.  He felt the hot blood leap to his face.  There was a roaring in his ears as he arose and said: 

“I think that is my sweater, Doctor Meredith.   At least I had one like
it and------”

“You had it?” asked the doctor, emphasizing the word.

“Yes, but I disposed of it some days ago.”

“How did you—­er—­dispose of it?”

“I would rather not state—­unless I am compelled to.”

“You may have to, Fairfield.  But of that more later.  You say this is your garment?”

“I think so, yes, sir.   At least there is only one other like it in
this school, as far as I know, and that one------”

“Belongs to me!” interrupted Sam Heller.  “I have mine here,” and, opening his coat, he showed, beneath it, the brightly-colored sweater.

This time there was not an eye but what was turned on Tom.  He felt the gaze and straightened up.

“But I wish to state, Doctor Meredith,” he said quickly, “that I had nothing to do with the poisoning of the horses, and I did not know of the occurrence until I saw the account in the paper.”