Quite unconscious of the storm that was gathering, Walter at this moment entered the store.
"So you've got back!" said Mr. Drummond, harshly.
"Yes, sir."
"You haven't been in any particular hurry. However, that was not what I wished to speak to you about. We have made a discovery since you went out."
"Have you, sir?" asked Walter, rather surprised by the peculiar tone which Mr. Drummond saw fit to adopt.
"Yes, and not a very agreeable one."
"I am sorry for that," said Walter, not knowing what else was expected of him.
"No doubt you are sorry," sneered Mr. Drummond. "I should think he would be, eh, Mr. Nichols?"
"I am sorry also," said Nichols, who, though rather weak-minded, was a good-hearted young man.
"So am I sorry," said Mr. Drummond. "It strikes me I have most reason to be sorry, considering that the loss has fallen on me."