Constable Cooke removed the irons, stepping between Levi and Bessie to do so.
"So long as you and your father do not believe I am guilty of any crime, I don't care for the irons or the prison," said Levi, cheerfully. "I am rather glad of an opportunity to vindicate myself, for I have no doubt there are some people who think I took my uncle's money."
"But it is so terrible to be sent to prison, and to be ironed!" added Bessie, her pretty face full of tender sympathy.
"Not at all. As I view it, the guilt is the only thing that is terrible. This may lead to the discovery of the real thief."
"Levi, have you any idea how that bag came in your state-room?" asked Mr. Watson.
"Not the least, sir. It must have been put there by the thief, or by some one acting for him."
"We shall not make our trip to-day—that is clear enough. Come, Mr. Cooke, we will go on shore, and inquire into this matter at once," continued Mr. Watson. "Levi, you must send all hands to the office of Squire Saunders, for probably we shall want their evidence."
The four young men who constituted the crew of the yacht lived in Rockport, and knew all about the relations of Levi with his uncle. They were directed to go ashore, with the cook and steward, and appear at the office of the trial justice. Levi was taken in charge by Constable Cooke, and went in his boat, with Dock Vincent, much against his will.
"We are likely to have a sharp time on't," said the officer, when they had pushed off from the yacht.
"Why so? What's up now?" demanded Dock.