"No violence, Conrad," said Mr. Drummond. "Such a theatrical display of indignation and surprise won't help you any. We are not to be imposed upon by your artful demonstrations."
"Mr. Drummond," burst forth Walter, fairly aroused, "you are insulting me by every word you speak. I am no more a thief than you are."
"Do you call me a thief?" exclaimed Mr. Drummond, turning white about the lips.
"No, I don't; but I have as much right to call you one as you have to charge such a thing upon me."
"I can prove what I say," said his employer. "I have got you in a net."
"It won't take me long to get out of any net you may set for me. I insist upon your telling me at once what you mean."
"This language is rather extraordinary for a boy convicted of dishonesty to use towards his employer."
"I am not convicted of dishonesty. Mr. Nichols, I appeal to you to tell me, what Mr. Drummond does not seem disposed to do, what is the meaning of this false charge which he has trumped up against me."
"I am sure you can prove your innocence, Conrad," said Nichols, soothingly.