"Has he ever been suspected of dishonesty to your knowledge?"
"Certainly not. He is the most popular train boy we ever had. I would stake a years salary on his honesty."
"Thank you, Mr. Bates," said Paul, gratefully.
He felt gratified, in this trying emergency, to find that there was one man who had full confidence in him.
"He looks honest," said the detective, thoughtfully.
"Verily, appearances are deceitful," said the Quaker. "I cannot afford to lose my money because the boy looks honest. Was not the wallet found in his pocket? I call upon thee, officer, to arrest him."
Paul felt very uncomfortable. Though he was buoyed up by the consciousness of his innocence, he was troubled by the thought that he might be carried back to Chicago handcuffed, or at any rate under arrest. Suppose he should meet some one whom he knew, would it not always be remembered against him, even if he were acquitted?
"You wish to press the charge, then?" said the detective.
"Verily, it is my duty."
"I hope, sir," said Paul, "you will not injure me to that extent. I swear to you that I am innocent."