"If your mother tells me that you were in at five minutes past eight, that settles the question, as far as you are concerned." "I didn't get in till half-past eight, sir," Reuben said.

"I walked about for a bit, after I came out from school, to try and get the stiffness out of my leg, so as to be able to come to work this morning." "Was anyone with you, Reuben?
Is there anyone to say what you did with yourself, between eight and half-past eight ?" "No, sir," Reuben said quietly.

"I didn't speak to a soul; and didn't see a soul, so far as I know, from the time I came out of the gate of the schoolhouse till I got home." "Does your mother sell packets of this poison ?" the squire said, pointing to the paper.
Reuben looked at the paper.
"Yes, sir; I believe she does." "Well, my lad," the squire said, "you must acknowledge that the case looks very ugly against you.

You are known to have borne bad feelings against the dog; naturally enough, I admit.

A boy about your size was seen by Robert in the dark, coming out of the gate; and that he was there for no good purpose is proved by the fact that he ran away when spoken to.