"Why did you do it?" asked Ned, turning to Moore.
"I didn't," was the reply.
"Who did?"
"I don't know."
"I don't believe you."
"There were others besides me," insisted Moore.
Ned made an examination of the end of the three cords. All had been cut. All had been tied to something, for the ends were frayed as if by being twisted about in the hands.
"I presume you thought you were cutting the air-hose?" asked Ned, tentatively.
"I reckon I know a line from a hose," was the reply.
"So you did cut them?"