Creelton almost collapsed and now stricken with fear said nothing. In a moment they were before the commandant.
“Sir,” said Himski, “I have to report Creelton for being a thief; I believe he is the thief we’ve had among us for four years.”
“This is an awful charge, Mr. Himski,” said the commandant gravely.
“It is, sir, and if it’s true, as I believe it is, there is all the more reason why it should be made. I believe complete evidence will be found in this tin box which is pretty heavy.” And then Himski related all that had happened.
“What have you to say, Mr. Creelton?”
“It’s all a lie, sir; I don’t know how Mr. Hamm’s name came to be on those towels. It’s a job on me, sir,” gasped the miserable culprit.
“Sir,” said Himski, “I request permission for a class meeting after supper to-night to consider these things.”
The commandant mused for a moment, and then said: “Granted, but I will be present.”
“I would like to leave the box and towels with you, sir, so that there could be no question of any tampering with them.”
“Very well; I’ll take charge of them and will bring them with me to-night at your meeting.”