He proceeded to do so, but only a few silver coins were found. The fact was that the note had been paid away in the billiard-room the previous evening.
"Now, Gerald, it is your turn."
Gerald looked embarrassed. Though he was perfectly innocent, he knew that there was a five-dollar bill in his pocketbook—part of the money drawn from the savings bank. Mr. Barton had handed it to him only two days previous.
Brandon had no knowledge of this. His only idea was to subject Gerald to humiliation. But when he saw the boy's confusion, he began to think that things were turning out unexpectedly in his favor.
"I don't think he wants to be searched, Mr. Tubbs," he said, pointedly.
"I am willing to follow the example of Mr. Brandon," said Gerald.
He took out his pocketbook and handed it to the grocer.
The latter opened it, and drew out a five-dollar bill.
"Ha!" he exclaimed, in excitement, as he held it up to view. "This tells the story, Gerald Lane! You are a thief!"
"That's false, Mr. Tubbs!" said Gerald, hotly. "That bill is mine."