CHAPTER XII
Reports
PERHAPS it was not the wisest course to have pursued, after all, on the part of the prefect, to have allowed all the boys who were present at the discovery of the theft to be absent for the whole day. Twelve hours was ample time for a number of rumors to be born, grow strong, and become, in the minds of some, established facts. There were, unfortunately, all too many willing to believe, not maliciously but thoughtlessly, the wildest and most absurd report. A few were anxious to find something more than a mere misfortune in that which had befallen the treasurer. These did not hesitate to sit in judgment on their fellows, to discuss and impute intentions which with knowledge any less than omniscient they could not possibly possess.
Almost as soon as the discovery had been made, the news spread like wildfire through the yard. Excited boys gathered in groups and discussed the situation. It was certainly the biggest sensation St. Cuthbert's had witnessed in many a day—more exciting than the Deming affair. The rumors were legion and as contradictory as numerous.
“Hi! Jones; have you heard the news?”asked Smithers, about half an hour after the discovery.
“No. What?”asked Rob.
“Haven't heard of the robbery?”
“No. What robbery? No one has stolen our costumes, have they?”