was no sign of the shed having been entered. This went on for nearly a
month, but still no result.

"I don't think it's any good bothering about it any more," said Acton;
"the thief doesn't mean to come again."

"Well, we'll set it to-night," answered Diggory, "and that shall be the
last time."

The following morning Acton was sauntering towards the playground, when
Diggory came running up the path in a state of great excitement.
"I say, the cotton's gone!"

Acton rushed down, unlocked the door of the shed, and went inside.

"Hullo!" he exclaimed, as Diggory followed; "_it is_ some man. Look at
these footprints, and hobnailed boots into the bargain!"



CHAPTER V.


CATCHING A TARTAR.

It was impossible for two boys to keep such an important discovery to
themselves, and the shed was soon filled with an eager crowd, all
anxious to view the mysterious footprints. The Triple Alliance
gained fresh renown as the originators of the scheme by which the
disclosure had been made, and it was unanimously decided that the matter