lear and straightforward enough," observed Dr. Mildman,
turning to the culprit. "I am afraid the case is only too fully proved
against you; have you anything to say which can at all establish your
innocence?"

"It would be of no use if I were to do so," said Cumberland, in a sullen
manner; "it is all a matter of assertion; you choose to believe what
they say, and if I were to deny it, you would not believe me without
proof, and how can I prove a negative?"

"But do you deny it?" inquired Dr. Mildman, regarding him with a clear,
scrutinising look. Cumberland attempted to speak, but, meeting Dr.
Mildman's eye, was unable to get out a word, and turned away, concealing
his face in his handkerchief.

"This is a sad piece of business," said Dr. Mildman; "I suppose you mean
to prosecute, Oaklands?"

"I shall be most unwilling to do so," was the reply; "nor will I, sir,
unless you consider it my positive duty; I would rather lose the money
ten times over than bring such a disgrace upon Cumberland."

"You are a kind-hearted fellow," replied the Doctor; "it really is a
very difficult case in which to know how to act. As a general principle,
I am most averse to anything like hushing up evil."

[Illustration: page90 The Doctor Expels and Pupil]

"For Heaven's sake have pity upon me, Dr. Mildman," cried Cumberland,
throwing himself on his knees before him; "I confess it all. I did allow
Spicer to keep the cheque; he threatened to expose me, and I did it to
escape detection; but promise you will not prosecute me, and I will tell
you where he may be found, so that something may be done about it yet. I
will pay anything you please. I shall come into money when I am of age,
and I can make some arrangement. I don't care what I sacrifice, if
I have to dig to earn my bread, only do not disgrace me publicly.
Remember, I am very young, and oh! if you knew what it is to be tempted
as I have been! Oaklands, Fairlegh, intercede for me; think how you
~91~~should feel, either of you, if you were placed in my situation!"

"Get up, Mr. Cumberland," observed Dr. Mildman, in a grave, impressive
manner; "it is equally needless and unbecoming to kneel to man for
forgiveness--learn to consider that position as a thing set apart and
sacred to the service of One greater than the sons of men--One, whom you
have indeed grievously offended, and to whom, in the solitude of your
chamber, you will do well to kneel, and pray that He who died to save
sin