“Ike, however, more courageous than his companion, went down to the brook side and discovered a student lying almost submerged, with his head saved from sinking by a cluster of willow stumps. “Horrified at the discovery, he knew not what to do, but shouting at the top of his voice, induced his companion to return. “After much difficulty, they dragged the inanimate form from among the willows; but mud had so disfigured him that they knew not who it was. “Blood flowed freely from the left breast. “One of them staunched the wound with a handkerchief, and both rustics carried the body towards the house in front, Pink having the lantern suspended from his neck. “Had a thunderbolt crashed through the roof, it could not have caused a more sudden cessation of festivities than did the arrival of Lawrence, borne as he was in the arms of the servants. “The news spread rapidly. “The company were electrified. “Every one was anxious to learn the particulars. “But all was wrapt in mystery, which only heightened curiosity still more. “The collegians rushed from the ball-room, and taking up the body, swiftly conveyed it to the house. “‘This way, gentlemen,’ said Lord Stoner, as he and Colonel Temple led the way upstairs. “‘Enter the first room you come to—there, that’s it; never mind (to his wife) if it is your daughter’s room; there’s no time to stand upon trifles; place him upon the bed—that’s it.’ “And the wet and muddy youth was carefully laid on the spotless counterpane, and the doctor immediately began to ply his art. “‘Ike,’ said he, ‘fetch my instruments, and gallop instantly into town and bring Dr. Newman with you; tell him there mustn’t be a moment’s delay.’ “‘It is a desperate case, gentlemen,’ said he, addressing a few who were allowed to remain in the room; ‘’tis naught but life or death; every moment is invaluable. Gentlemen, you will excuse me, I know, when I say it is necessary that you all retire.’ “And the door closed on Lord Stoner, Colonel Temple, Harry Ashton, a collegian, and Susy, the chambermaid. “The sudden calamity had stunned all present, and one by one the visitors departed. “Clare and Belle had heard the news. “But neither spoke. “They sat apart in silence, waiting for the colonel, who at last appeared, and the carriage drove off to the ‘Willows.’ “‘Don’t ask me any questions, girls,’ said the old man, as they rode home. ‘I am full of passion, and might say things to offend your ear; but let me tell you, this is a dastardly outrage; it was not a fight, but deliberate assassination, and old as I am, I would walk a hundred miles for the pleasure of putting a bullet into the precious scoundrel who did it. “‘No, we can find no clue to the affair. The collegians have been down to the bridge, but there are no traces of the struggle, and the poor lad himself is insensible.