," said Philip. "I laid my note on it, so
that it need not be overlooked."

"There are more big books in the office than one," said Mr Caldwell,
crossing the room to a large safe, of which the doors were still
standing open. One by one he lifted the large account-books that were
not often disturbed, and turned over the leaves slowly, to see whether
any paper might have been shut in them. As soon as Philip understood
what he was doing, he gave himself to the same work with a great deal
more energy and interest than Mr Caldwell displayed. But it was Mr
Caldwell who came upon that for which they were looking--Philip's note
to his father--safe between the pages of a great ledger, which looked as
though it might not have been opened for years.

"I mind well; I was referring back to Moses Cramp's account of past
years on the very day that brought us all our trouble. And now, David
Inglis, your trial is over for this time," and he handed the note to Mr
Oswald.

"Provided Mr Philip has made no mistake," added he, cautiously, as the
note was opened.

The interest with which David looked on may be imagined. It took Mr
Oswald a good while to read the note; at least, it was a good while
before he laid it down, and Mr Caldwell, claiming Mr Philip's help,
set about putting the big books in their places again. David never
thought of offering to help.

"It has been a very unfortunate mistake," said Mr Oswald, at last.

"All's well that ends well," said his son lightly.

"I am very sorry that you should have been made unhappy about it, David.
I might have known that _you_ were not to blame, but there seemed to be
no one else. I beg your pardon sincerely," said Mr Oswald.

"I am very glad it is all right, sir," said David, quietly.

"I should like to know one thing," said Philip. "How came Frank to
write to me? He must have thought I was the thief--the young rascal.
Did you think so, Davie?"

"No," said David, "I never thought you took it. I don't know what Frank
thought. I never spoke to him about it, nor to any one," added David,
after a moment's hesitation.

"Well! never mind. I'll sift that matter by and by. Come up to the
house with me, Davie. I am very sorry for all the pain you have had
about this business. Come home with me to-night."

"No; I am going home by myself. I have a headache. You were not to
blame."

"Yes, he was to blame," said Mr Oswald. "It was a very unbusiness-like
way of doing t