"He is a man that used to work for Mr. Fells, but he was discharged for getting drunk."
"I see."
"He is angry at me for having filled his place, and he has vowed to get square with both of us."
"Humph! And you are sure you saw him leaving the house?"
"I saw him leave the garden by the side gate. He must have been in the house."
"Not necessarily. But still it looks like it."
"I don't see why you want to stick up for the boy, Belden," cried Mrs. Mace.
"Because he doesn't look like a young man who would steal," returned her brother, quietly.
"I don't believe a word he says."
"Neither do I," added John Mace.
"I do." Belden Brice turned again to Franklin. "Did you see if Gresson had anything in his hands?"
"No. He carried his left hand in his coat pocket."
"Did Mr. Fells see him?"
"I hardly think so."
There was a moment's pause, and then John Mace caught hold of Franklin and began to search his pockets.
Of course nothing was found.
"Look in the road while I look in the garden," said Mrs. Mace.
"Supposing we question your cook," said Belden Brice. "She may have seen this Gresson."
