Stones have been known to move and trees to speak;
Auguries and understood relations have,
By magot-pies and choughs and rooks, brought forth
The secret'st man of blood."
"True, Mr. Tickle," said Bragg. "And as sure as yonder sun is shining in the heavens I heard a voice issuing from that monkey's mouth and proclaiming Botts to be the murderer!"
"Botts could prove an alibi," said Toney. "He has gone back to Mapleton."
"The conscience-stricken villain!" exclaimed Bragg. "He has imbrued his hands in innocent blood and then fled. I will follow him to the ends of the earth!" And Bragg started off as if in pursuit of the murderer.
"Captain!" shouted Seddon, "What will you do with the corpse?"
"Bury it," said Bragg, coming back,—"and then I will seek out that villain Botts."
Accompanied by the boys, Bragg proceeded to bury his monkey.