“E.H. It belongs to this pencil-case,” answered Hamilton, producing his pencil-case. “I always carry it about with me.”
“That's awkward again,” said Dr. Berry, exchanging a look with Mr. James.
“Have you never left your pencil-case about lately, nor lent it to any one?” asked Dr. Wilkinson.
Hamilton considered.
“I believe I left it with all my things on the class-room table last Friday, when I went out with you, sir.”
“Ah!” said Dr. Berry, “what did you leave there?”
“Some writing-paper, pens, a few books, and my poem, which I had just finished.”
“That was careless of you, Hamilton,” said Dr. Wilkinson.
“I had only just sealed it in time to run after you, sir,” replied Hamilton; “and, as every one was out, I thought there could be no harm in leaving them there till I returned.”
“How much paper did you leave there?” asked Mr. James.