The company looked at the small hands doubtfully. They were none too little for many a forbidden feat. How had he got on the swing-shelf? How—
"Ye see, crayther, it must uv been yersilf, becuz there isn't annybuddy else."
"Look here," said the Colonel, "we'll forgive you this time if you'll own up. Just tell us—"
"Kaviak!" Again that journey from the cricket to the judgment-seat.
"Show us"—Mac had taken the shut tin, and now held it out—"show us how you got the lid off."
But Kaviak turned away. Mac seized him by the shoulder and jerked him round.
Everyone felt it to be suspicious that Kaviak was unwilling even to try to open the all too attractive can. Was he really cunning, and did he want not to give himself away? Wasn't he said to be much older than he looked? and didn't he sometimes look a hundred, and wise for his years?
"See here: I haven't caught you in a lie yet, but if I do—"
Kaviak stared, drew a long breath, and seemed to retire within himself.
"You'd better attend to me, for I mean business."