"Yes, sir; I believe this to be my writing beyond a doubt. Yet, sir, I have no recollection of having written this address. All I know is that it is my handwriting."
"Sergeant, dismiss your men," directed Lieutenant Ray, as he reached out and took the envelope. "Corporal Overton, you will not leave the room."
"Is the corporal under arrest, sir?" asked Sergeant Hupner, in a quiet voice.
"No, Sergeant. But I wish to have him immediately at hand, in case the company, battalion or regimental commanders wish to see him. When the men fall in for supper formation, if Corporal Overton has not been summoned by an officer, then let him march to mess with the rest, but he must return here immediately after the meal."
"Very good, sir."
Lieutenant Ray withdrew, followed by the corporal and privates of the guard.
"I am not forbidden to speak to other men, am I, Sergeant?" asked Hal Overton, going directly up to him.
"You are not in any sense in arrest, Corporal," replied Hupner, then adding, in a lower voice:
"And I hope you'll do some mighty hard thinking, lad, and be able to give a very straight account about that envelope."
"Sergeant, as I am in no way guilty of any part in the robbery, I do not believe that there will be much trouble about being able to make an explanation when I have had time to think."