“Do you think Fred started it?”
“He says not, and I believe him.”
Sunday morning found the storm cleared away and the sun shining brightly. When the cadets got up they were sleepy, and consequently Captain Putnam had roll call and breakfast delayed. Then came chapel service.
“As to-day is Sunday I shall not inquire into the cause that led to the fire last night,” said the master of the school, when the cadets had assembled. “But an investigation will be made to-morrow morning.”
This announcement was received with interest, and during the remainder of the day the cadets discussed the matter freely among themselves.
“You keep quiet about our smoking,” said Ritter to Sabine.
“I—I didn’t start the fire,” faltered Sabine. “I—er—I put out my cigarette as soon as you left me.”
“Don’t you dare to shove this thing off on me!” said the bully fiercely. “You are as much to blame as I am.”
This remark fairly terrorized the weak-kneed cadet and he promised not to say a word about smoking.
The investigation was started directly after breakfast on Monday morning. The entire school was assembled for the purpose and Captain Putnam showed that he meant to get at the bottom of the affair.