“Oh?”

“Yes, it seems someone is picking out students at random and beating them up. Well, assaults are serious, but our problem is important, too. If we lose even one of our last three games, we’ll lose the championship! That’s why I took Ned’s advice and called you, Nancy. These pranks have got to stop!”

Nancy knew that the pranks would probably stop on their own. Sooner or later most practical jokers lost interest in their activities. Still, telling that to the coach wasn’t going to put his mind at rest. He wanted action now.

“Coach Burnett, have you told anyone else why I’m here?” she inquired.

“No, I thought it best not to mention it. That way you can pretend you’re here to see the games, if it will help your investigation.”

“It will.” Because of Ned there was no hope of working undercover, but even so she wanted to remain as anonymous as possible.

Nancy was about to promise the coach that she would do her best when a commotion in the hall stopped her. Through the door they heard shouts and the sound of people running.

Crossing the room, Coach Burnett opened the door. Outside, Nancy could see members of the team dashing toward the gym. They were clad only in shorts, and from their expressions they were obviously upset.

“Jefferson!” the coach barked. “What’s going on?”

A tall black player stopped by the door. His voice was tense. “I’m not sure, Coach, but the word is that somebody from the team just hung himself!”

Chapter Two

Instantly the coach bolted out the door and hurried after his team. Nancy and her friends were right behind him. It took only seconds to reach the gym, and as they entered it Nancy’s stomach twisted in horror.

Hanging by a noose from one of the backboards was a human figure!