They had doubtless come to restore the pencil, and plead for mercy.

They should see that mercy was not kept in stock in his shop, and would want some little trouble before it was to be procured.
So he bade his visitors step inside, and state their business.
"We've come about the pencil, you know," said Dick, adopting a conciliatory tone to begin with.

"It's really a mistake, Webster.
Coote never took it." "No.

We've known Coote for years, and never knew him do such a thing," said Heathcote.
"And they've turned out every one of my pockets," said Coote, "and there was no sign of it." Mr Webster smiled serenely.
"Very pretty, young gentlemen; very pretty.

When you have done joking, perhaps, you'll give me what belongs to me." "Hang it!" cried Dick, forgetting his suavity.