"Did you lend the box to anybody?"
"No. The fact is, I—er—I thought I had left the box home. I—Oh!"
"Well?"
"I think maybe the box was in my dress-suit case, the case I lost. But it wasn't in the case when it was left at my door that morning."
"Oh, nonsense!" muttered Professor Sharp. "He is guilty, sir, and he might as well own up to it first as last."
"I have told the strict truth!" cried Tom hotly. "I am not in the habit of telling falsehoods."
"Have you any other proof against Rover, Professor Sharp?"
"Not now, but I may be able to pick up more later."
"Hum! This is certainly a serious matter. Rover, you will go to your room and remain there until I send for you again."
"Can't I go down to town?" asked Tom.