“He arn’t ill, sir,” said the man eagerly, “I found him close by, at the Little Half Moon, in the back street.”
“Drinking?”
“Yes, sir, and treating a lot of his mates. He wanted me to have some, and when I wouldn’t, he said I should, and emptied half a glass over me. See here.”
He held up one of his broad skirts which was liberally splashed.
Uncle Josiah frowned, and took a turn or two up and down the office. Then he stopped before Jem.
“Go round to Smithers the constable. You know: the man who came when the rum was broached.”
“Yes, sir, I know.”
“Ask Smithers to bring Michael Bannock round here. I must clear this matter up.”
“Yes, sir,” said Jem; and he hurried out, while Don drew a long breath.
“Uncle does not suspect me,” he said to himself. “The scoundrel! He must have taken advantage of your back being turned to come in here. You did not notice anything, Lindon?”