"That sounds reasonable," came from the constable, who was beginning to fear the influence which Captain Putnam and the Rovers might bring to bear on the case. "It ain't no nice thing to ruin a boy's repertation, if he ain't guilty," he added.
"That is a sensible speech which does you credit, sir," said the captain.
"I'd like to find this feller Flapp," went on Aaron Fairchild. "How does he look?"
"I have his photograph at the academy. I will let the constable have that, if he wishes it."
"That suits me," returned Josiah Cotton. "Hang me if I don't kinder think he must be guilty. But it puzzles me how them things got in the boys' uniforms."
The matter was discussed for fully an hour, and the whole party visited Aaron Fairchild's shop. But no clews were brought to light. Then a wagon was hired to take the captain and the boys to Putnam Hall. The constable went along, to get the photograph which had been promised.
On the way the three Rovers were unusually silent and but little was said by the master of the school. Arriving at the Hall the picture was turned over to Josiah Cotton, who soon after departed. Then the three Rovers were invited into the captain's private office. The marching battalion had not yet arrived and was not expected for several hours.
"I'd like to sift this matter out," said the captain, seating himself at his desk. "Richard, when did you clean your uniform last?"
"Yesterday afternoon, Captain Putnam."
"Were those holes in there then?"