d behind it a desk
at which sat a captain of the squad.

The officer made his report, which, though fair and impartial, still was
sufficient to cause our hero's commitment for trial.

"What is your name?" questioned the captain.

Dick thought it best to be straightforward, and, though he winced at the
idea of his name appearing in the daily papers, answered in a manly
tone, "Richard Hunter."

"Of what nation?"

"American."

"Where were you born?"

"In this city."

"What is your age?"

"Sixteen years."

These answers were recorded, and, as Dick expressed a desire to
communicate with his friends before trial, permission was given him to
write to them, and the trial was appointed for the next morning at the
Tombs. The red-faced man certified that his wallet contained nine
dollars and sixty-two cents, which was found to be correct. He agreed to
be present the next morning to prefer his charge, and with such manifest
pleasure that he was not retained, as it sometimes happens, to insure
his appearance.

"I will find a messenger to carry your notes," said the friendly
officer.

"Thank you," said Dick. "I will take care that you are paid for your
trouble."

"I require no pay except what I have to pay the messenger."

Dick was escorted to a cell for safe-keeping. He quickly dashed off a
letter to Mr. Murdock, fearing that Mr. Rockwell might not be in the
store. It was as follows:--

"MR. MURDOCK,--What will you think when I tell you that I
have been unlucky enough to be arrested on suspicion of picking a
man's pocket? The real thief slipped the wallet into my pocket as I
was looking into a shop window, and it was found on me. I couldn't
prove my innocence, so here I am at the station-house. They will
think strange at the store because I am absent. Will you tell Mr.
Rockwell privately what has detained me; but don't tell Mr.
Gilbert. He don't like me any too well, and would believe me guilty
at once, or pretend he did. I am sure _you_ won't believe I would
do such a thing, or Mr. Rockwell either. Will you come and see me
to-night? I am to be tried to-morrow morning. I aint very proud of
the hotel where I am stopping, but they didn't give me much choice
in the matter.

"RICHARD HUNTER."

"_Station-House, Franklin Street._"

The other letter was to Fosdick; here it is:--

"DEAR FOSDICK,--I didn't much think when I left you th