"Yes," said the tutor sternly. "They saw you encounter your cousin, and they heard nearly every word he said." "And what I said, sir?" "No. They tell me you spoke to him in a low voice, as if you were begging him not to do something, and they gathered that it was about keeping a trouble quiet." "No, no, sir!" cried Richard wildly. "That is how it impressed them, and they say that, when your cousin refused what you wanted, you attacked him." "No, sir! We fought; but I acted in self-defence." "Indeed!" said his tutor, coldly. "They heard words, too, about debt--a heavy sum--and forging--matters that should not be even known amongst the gentlemen studying here. I find, too, Frayne, that you have been mixed up with money matters." "It is not true, sir." "Your cousin declared you were. He was heard to say so, and if the worst comes to the worst, Frayne, his words will be believed." "Do you mean if he dies, sir?" gasped Richard. "I do, Frayne. I have had a letter from that Mr Simpson, and I find that he came to you this morning to be paid, and that sharp words passed between you in your room. This is all very bad, Frayne, and, confused though it is, it goes against you. The police--" "What?" cried Richard. "Were for arresting you at once." "Arresting me? What for?" cried the young man, indignantly. "For a murderous assault upon your cousin; but I would not hear of it now. I said that you would be here if it was found necessary to proceed against you." "Oh, but this is madness, sir!" cried Richard, excitedly. "They could not do that!" The tutor shook his head. "We must look troubles in the face, Frayne," he said. "If matters come to the worst, there must be an inquest, and, whatever you may say, your fellow-pupils' words will have weight." Richard literally staggered, and gazed wildly at the heavy face of his tutor, who went on slowly-- "It is a terrible business, Frayne, and a fearful blow for me. I cannot blame myself. I always treat those who study with me as gentlemen, and if the poor fellow upstairs does sink, the consequences must be crushing for you." "Never mind me, sir; let's think of my cousin. He must get better! There, I can think more clearly now. It is as if my head does not feel so shut up and strange. I won't try to defend myself, sir; but Andrews and Sinjohn are wrong. I am innocent." "But you struck your cousin down." "Yes, sir; I was nearly mad with passion." "Ah!" sighed the tutor. "But it was in fair fighting, sir!" "I am afraid, Frayne, it is manslaughter; and now let us bring this painful interview to a close. You will have the goodness to go up to your room, and to stay there until I ask you to come down. Stop! I think it would be better for you to have legal advice. This is all so new to me!" "I'm going to my room--to stay there, sir--but don't do anything about me till we hear what the great doctor says; it may not be so bad. Can I see my cousin now?"