ley, somewhat to the astonishment
of Richard, who, of course, understood what all these things were for.

"What was it?" asked the intended victim.

"It was a piece of your exercise book; and I didn't know but the piece
might enable you to find the whole."

While they were talking the alarm of fire was given; but before they
could reach the spot, some ready hands had extinguished the flames. In
accordance with the programme laid down upon the island, pieces of
Richard's exercise book, some of them half burned, were found in and
near the shed. Several cards of matches, and half the printed paper
that had enclosed the original bunch, were also picked up near the
building which had been devoted to destruction.

An investigation was immediately commenced. The boys were ordered to
the school room. The pieces of Richard's exercise book were examined. A
dozen boys had seen its owner standing near the shed before the fire
originated. The teachers were sent to examine the closets for further
evidence. Not only were several cards of matches found in Richard's
closet, but also part of the printed envelope that had enclosed them.
This piece of paper was a portion of the wrapper, of which the other
part had been found in the shed.

These facts were duly announced to the boys, and it seemed as clear as
noonday that Richard Grant was the incendiary. He was ordered to report
forthwith at the office, and the boys were dismissed for the night.

"We have fixed him this time," said Nevers, in a whisper, as he and
Redman left the room.

"He is under arrest, and to-morrow he will be sent home in disgrace,"
replied Redman, rubbing his hands. "Nevers, you will be the next
captain of Company D."

"We have broken the fellows' idol, at any rate. Grant will spend the
night in the guard house," added Nevers.

Nevers was slightly mistaken; for Richard, though he did not appear in
Barrack B that night, occupied the guest chamber of Colonel
Brockridge's private residence. His friends, especially Bailey, were
gloomy and sad. The more lukewarm ones were sure, and always had been,
that Grant was a bad boy.

On Monday morning, when the boys had assembled in the school room,
Colonel Brockridge appeared, followed by Richard. The students
understood that the incendiary case was to be settled, and a breathless
silence pervaded the hall.

"Grant stands before you accused of a very grave offence," the
principal began. "We cannot permit a boy who s