“Since you have said so much you must say more. I am a cousin of Mr. Ames, and if you know anything unfavorable of the boy, it is your duty to tell me.”
“I have nothing against the boy, and would prefer not to speak.”
“I insist upon your doing it.”
“It is only this. When I knew him he was employed in a store. He was trusted as he appears to be here. One night the store was robbed—that is, some money disappeared, and the boy claimed that it was broken into by thieves, who took the money, whereas he took it himself.”
“That seems bad. Was it proved that he took the money?”
“Yes. That’s why he was compelled to leave the place.”
“Did you come here to expose him?”
“No; I didn’t know he was here. I was very much taken by surprise when I saw him in the store.”
“This is important, if true. Mr. Ames ought to be informed.”
“Don’t tell him while I am here. The boy is very revengeful, and he might try to do me an injury.”