“We didn’t even have a light.”
“Mr. Crabtree, let the boys explain,” said the captain, stiffly.
“Captain Putnam, I think I can explain,” retorted the teacher. “To-day I made a discovery.”
“Well?”
“Some of the students have been in the habit of going down to the old boathouse to smoke and to drink.”
“To smoke and to drink!” cried the master of the Hall, “You are sure of this?”
“I am, sir.”
“Why did you not report to me at once?”
“I did not find it out until this afternoon. I was on my way to speak to you about it when the alarm of fire rang out.”
“Ahem! And you think, Mr. Crabtree——?” The captain paused suggestively.