"That's a likely story. Of course a boy that will steal will lie."
"It is true," said Gerald, firmly.
"Then where did you get this money?" demanded the grocer, sternly.
"From Mr. Barton, in the savings bank."
"Gerald Lane, you may think I am an idiot, but you are mistaken. I will keep this bill."
"Then it is you who are the thief. You can ask Mr. Barton if I do not tell the truth."
Brandon smiled gleefully. He was very much surprised to learn that Gerald had a five-dollar bill in his possession. He knew, of course, that it was not the bill taken from the drawer; but the grocer did not know, and he saw that it would clear him from suspicion.
"What do you think of this boy, Brandon?" asked Mr. Tubbs.
"I think he yielded to temptation, and that he won't do it again. Will you do me a favor, Mr. Tubbs, and overlook his offense?"
"You are very kind to him, Brandon, especially when he has charged you with robbing the money-drawer; but I cannot retain a thief in my employ."