"Certainly, Porter. Come in and sit down."
Dave entered and closed the door after him, for he had caught sight of Job Haskers close at hand, curious to learn what he might have to say for himself. Sitting down he told his rather remarkable story, to which the master of the Hall listened with close attention.
"These robbers are certainly getting bold," said Dr. Clay. "It is a pity you could not get out of that smokehouse sooner."
"That is just what I told the others."
"You are certain you went over to Marcy's only for the kite and later for the watch?" and the doctor looked Dave squarely in the eyes.
"That's it, sir. I did not touch his apples or anything else, and neither did Phil nor Roger."
"Then he certainly had no right to lock you up. Do you wish to make a complaint against him?"
"No, not that. Only I wanted to explain why I didn't get back to school last evening."
"I see."
"Mr. Haskers approached me about it and acted as if he wanted to punish me."