"And let me say at the start that I want the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, as they say in court." "Are you going to try me for my life ?" demanded The Imp.
"I am going to try you on a very serious charge," snapped Josiah Crabtree.
"Do not be too hasty, Mr.Crabtree," put in George Strong, mildly.
"Mr.Crabtree, if you want to know about the teeth, let me confess that I took them and hung them up where they were found," said Pepper.
"Ha! so you are willing to confess, eh ?" "I am.

I did it for fun--but I suppose you don't see the fun," added Pepper, dryly, so dryly in fact that George Strong had to turn away to hide a sudden smile.
"It was a low, contemptible trick!" returned Josiah Crabtree.

"But I must say I do not think it quite as bad as your other doings." "My other doings ?" asked The Imp, somewhat mystified.
"Mr.Crabtree, do not be hasty, I beg of you," put in the under teacher.
"Ditmore, how did you get the teeth ?" demanded Josiah Crabtree.
"It was very easy, sir, if you must know.

I went into the vacant bedroom next to your room, climbed from one window to the other, and the trick was done." "Were you alone ?" "Yes, sir, absolutely alone." "Have you been alone when visiting the other rooms in this building ?" demanded Josiah Crabtree, sharply.
"Mr.Crabtree----" began George Strong, but the head teacher motioned for the assistant to be silent.
"I--I don't understand," stammered Pepper.
"You have shown your expertness in visiting rooms during the night, and without awakening anybody," went on Josiah Crabtree, coldly.

"Some time ago other rooms were visited in this building, and various things were taken--some things of great value--things which have not been returned.
Now, Ditmore----" "Mr.Crabtree, stop!" cried Pepper, and his eyes flashed with sudden fire.