He felt the coat over carefully and presently brought forth another
ring and a pair of child's bracelets.

"It's as plain as preachin'!" came from the third man, a farmer named
Gassam. "He's the thief, sure."

"I declare upon my honor I am innocent," cried Dick, the hot blood
rushing to his face. He turned to Captain Putnam. "You don't think
I--I--"

"I believe what you say, Captain Rover," answered the master of the
Hall, promptly. "There is assuredly some mistake here."

"Give me your coat," said Josiah Cotton to Tom.

The garment was handed over, and after a thorough search two small gold
stick pins were found in the middle of the back.

"More o' my goods," cried Aaron Fairchild, triumphantly. "I can prove I
had 'em on sale not four days ago."

Sam's coat was then examined, and from one of the sleeves came half a
dozen cheap rings and an equally cheap watchchain.

"All mine. The case is as clear as day," said the jeweler. "Josiah, you
must lock 'em up."

"0' course I'll lock 'em up," answered the constable.

"Lock us up!" cried Sam, aghast.