"I understand. But who are the cadets?"
"Reff Ritter and Gus Coulter."
"Oh, yes, I remember now. You and Major Ruddy have had quite some trouble with them in the past."
"Yes, sir. But I'd hate to think they did such a mean thing as this," added Pepper, hastily.
"Well, take a look around and report again to-morrow," returned Captain Putnam; and then closed his desk slowly and thoughtfully.
Pepper did take a look around, but it was of no use. Not a trace of the missing scarfpin could be found.
"This certainly beats the nation!" remarked Dale, when the cadets were talking the affair over. "First Andy loses his jewelry, then Jack, and now Pepper. Wonder if I hadn't better put my cuff-links in the captain's safe?" And he cut a wry face. "They cost me a dollar and a quarter."
"I'll wager Captain Putnam would give a good deal to catch the thief," remarked Stuffer. "Say, Pep, I hope you don't suspect anybody in this dormitory?" he added anxiously.
"No, Stuffer," was the quick answer. Then Pepper broke into a grin. "Of course, if it was a doughnut, or a pie, I'd suspect you right off!"
"Huh! It's no crime to take something to eat!" grunted Stuffer.