“It is very mysterious,” mused the book-keeper.
“I hope you don’t suspect me of taking it, cousin Simon,” said John, who had been instructed what to say.
“Of course not.”
John began to turn his pockets inside out.
“I want you to search me,” he said; “if you don’t, you may think I took it, after all.”
“I never thought of such a thing, John,” said Simon Moore.
“I am sure Gilbert and I would prefer to be searched,” persisted John, looking towards Gilbert as he spoke.
Gilbert colored, for it was not agreeable to him to fall under suspicion, but he answered quietly, “I am quite ready to be searched.”
“I don’t think it at all necessary,” said Simon Moore; “but if you boys insist upon it, I will do it. It is certainly strange that the bill should have disappeared, and left no trace behind. Gilbert, will you search John, and then he shall search you.”
“If you desire it, Mr. Moore,” said Gilbert; “but I don’t believe John took the bill, and I am sure I didn’t.”