John observed, however, that Mrs.Ann had less of her usual gaiety, and he was not much surprised when his uncle leaving the table said, "Come into the library, John." The Captain lighted his pipe and sat down.
"Now, sir," he said, "Billy is a poor witness.

I desire to hear what happened." The stiffened hardness of the speaker in a measure affected the boy.

He stood for a moment silent.

The Captain, impatient, exclaimed, "Now, I want the simple truth and nothing else." The boy felt himself flush.

"I do not lie, sir.