diff --git a/collects/help/help.ss b/collects/help/help.ss
index c350c27a..976bb8df 100644
--- a/collects/help/help.ss
+++ b/collects/help/help.ss
@@ -52,7 +52,5 @@ It is only loaded when Help Desk is run by itself (outside DrScheme).
                #f))
        browser-frame)))
 
-  (preferences:read)
-      
   (new-help-desk))
   
\ No newline at end of file