They left the store, and Mr. Drummond began to berate the absent Walter. He was provoked to find that he had lost two dollars and a half, and, if Walter had been in receipt of any wages, would have stopped the amount out of his salary. But, unfortunately for this plan of reprisal, our hero received his board only, and that could not very well be levied upon. However, he might have some money in his possession, and Mr. Drummond decided to require him to make up the loss.
"When did she say she bought the shawl, Mr. Nichols?" asked his employer.
"About a fortnight ago."
"Will you look on the books, and see if you find the sale recorded? I am surprised that it escaped my attention."
Nichols looked over the book of sales, and announced that no such entry could be found.
Mr. Drummond was surprised. Though not inclined to judge others any too charitably, he had never suspected Walter of dishonesty.
"Are you sure you looked back far enough?" he asked.
"Yes," said Nichols; "to make sure, I looked back four weeks. The woman said only a fortnight, you know."
"I know. Then it seems Conrad has concealed the sale and kept the money."