Ned had already given his reason for keeping silence in the matter hitherto, and Ripon now explained that they had determined to wait till Saturday to see what came of it, but that after that new theft they deemed it their duty to speak at once.

Mr.Porson sat with his face half shaded with his hand and without speaking a single word until the boys had concluded.
"It is a sad business," he said in a low tone, "a very sad business.

It is still possible that you may have come to false conclusions; but the circumstances you have related are terribly strong.

I am grieved, indeed, over the business, and would rather have lost a hundred books and pencil cases than it should have happened.

You have done quite right, boys; I am greatly obliged to you both, and you have acted very well.