Penny and Susan pushed their way into the little group. They had recognized Betty Davis' low pitched voice but were unacquainted with the girl who was accusing her of the theft.
"Let's get to the bottom of this," the matron said severely, turning to the first girl. "Did you have your locker fastened securely?"
"No, that's how she got in. I forgot to lock it. She had the locker next to mine and she must have snatched the ring while I was in the shower."
Betty's face was pale, but with an effort she remained calm as she refuted the charge.
"I don't know anything about this girl's ring. The one I have is my own."
"Give it to me," the matron ordered. Reluctantly, Betty removed the ring from her finger. It was a white gold band with a cluster of three tiny diamonds. In the act of handing it over, she suddenly changed her mind.
"I'll not give up my own property! This was my mother's engagement ring. And she's dead now."
"Can you prove your story?" the matron questioned.
"You can call my father. Jerome Davis—he is on the police force."
"Yes, but he won't be there long!" the first girl said scornfully. "Everyone knows he's to be let out because of dishonesty. And your brother——"