"I remember—quite well," said the master. "Well, Percival, what have you to say against this last charge?"
"Only that it is as false as the other."
"Did you leave your dormitory that night?"
"Yes, sir; I don't deny that. I did leave my room, but not to steal. I left it to go to Moncrief in Dormitory X. I thought the punishment too severe, sir, if you'll pardon me for saying so, so I thought that I would keep him company. It was wrong of me, I know; but I did not give it much thought at the time."
"And I can confirm every word that Percival has said!" exclaimed Stanley. "He came to me that night—to Dormitory X."
"Pshaw!" cried Newall, taking up Parfitt's case. "How could he get to you through the locked door?"
"He didn't get through the door. He came along the parapet, and got through the dormer window."
Blank amazement fell on the group.
"It's all very well to say that. Any one could say that," cried Parfitt; "but we want something better than that. We want proof!"
"If you won't take Moncrief's word, I think I can prove it by Mr. Weevil," said Paul, turning to the master. "As I passed by the window of your room, sir, I took the liberty of peeping in. I saw you discussing some plans with a friend. Perhaps you can recall it, sir?"