The Head spoke shortly, but kindly, as if inviting the boy to be at ease; and Charlton told his story, and explained how he had seen Dobson and Elgert break open the desk.
"The desk was unlocked. There was no need to break it open," the Head said; and then he turned to the other two boys, and asked them what they had to say.
What they had to say indeed! Such indignant denials, and such plain statements that it was all up between Rexworth and Charlton.
"Rexworth is detained, and cannot be here yet," said the Head quietly. "But we can proceed with this inquiry in his absence. Elgert and Dobson, stand out!"
And the two obeyed, ill at ease, wondering what was coming next, and casting suspicious looks at each other, as if each thought the other had turned informer.
"Horace Elgert, did you ever see this before?" asked the Head.
And Elgert turned white, for the doctor held out that wretched crib which he had thrown into the river.
"No, sir," he answered, averting his eyes.
And the same answer was asked of Dobson, who gave the same answer.