as to his wisest course of action. Requesting the attention of all, he
addressed us, saying. "You are all aware that I lost this money, and you
all know where I found it. I am sensible that, with most persons, a
doubt of Walter's guilt would not exist for a moment, but I say to you
all, that, strong as appearances are against him, I am not entirely
convinced that Walter Harland stole that money. He declares himself
innocent; he has been a pupil in this school for some months past, and
during this time I have never known him to deviate from the truth in the
slightest degree. I shall wait for a time before proceeding further, and
see what light may be thrown upon this most painful affair. If Walter
did not place that bill in his pocket himself some one else did," and as
Mr. Oswald spoke, he cast a searching glance from one desk to the other;
but not a shadow of guilt could be detected upon the countenance of any
present. "I would say in conclusion," said Mr. Oswald, "any scholar who
taunts Walter with stealing, or ridicules him in any way, will be
immediately expelled from school. For the present at least, let no
allusion be made to the matter, unless it be in a way to throw light
upon it, in that case let the communication be made to me alone. You
all hear my commands, and I advise you to respect them." This was a
dreadful afternoon to me; it seemed that a weight had suddenly fallen
upon me which was crushing me to the earth. Although no one dared
violate the commands of our teacher, I could not fail to notice the
changed manner of nearly all my companions when school was dismissed.
Some hurried away without taking any notice of me whatever; others
seemed disposed to patronize me by their notice, which was more humbling
still to one of my sensitive nature. The first ray of light which
penetrated the darkness which had settled over my spirit was when Willie
and Rose Oswald overtook me after a rapid walk, I having hurried away
from every one. "What made you run away Walter," said Rose, panting for
breath, "a nice race you have given us to overtake you. You needn't feel