"This is too ridiculous!" said Mr. Hooper, contemptuously.
"Luke is no thief, and if he had the tin box he has given the
right explanation of how he came by it."
"I know he is a favorite of yours, Mr. Hooper, but that won't
save him from going to jail," said Randolph, tartly.
"If he is a favorite of mine," said the teacher, with dignity,
"it is for a very good reason. I have always found him to be a
high-minded, honorable boy, and I still believe him to be so,
in spite of the grave accusation that has been brought against him."
There was something in the teacher's manner that deterred
Randolph from continuing his malicious attack upon Luke. Mr.
Hooper lost no time in inquiring into the facts of the case, and
then in seeking out Luke, whom he found in the constable's house.
"Luke," he said, extending his hand, "I have heard that you
were in trouble, and I have come to see what I can do for you."
"You are very kind, Mr. Hooper," said Luke, gratefully.
"I hope you don't believe me guilty."
"I would as soon believe myself guilty of the charge, Luke."
"That's just what I said, Mr. Hooper," said Constable Perkins.
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