Page:Under Dewey at Manila.djvu/98

76 one and another began to question first Larry and then the Norwegian. Most of the sailors had heard the tale of the missing money before, and as between Larry's open, honest face and Oleson's sullen, crafty visage, it was plain to see whom they were inclined to believe.

The discussion waxed so warm that Tom Grandon's attention was attracted. He listened to both sides patiently, then brought the matter to a close by demanding that Larry and Oleson follow him to the captain's cabin.

Captain Ponsberry was found in conversation with Rev. Martin Wells and his other passengers. He looked up in surprise at seeing his mate enter with two of the foremast hands.

"This is a serious matter," he said, after Grandon had explained the situation, while the missionary shook his head sorrowfully. "Russell, how do you know this is the man who robbed you?"

"I know him by his voice and by his looks. He has shaved off his beard, but that doesn't count with me."

"You saw him before you retired that night—I mean you talked to him?"

"Yes, sir; for ten or fifteen minutes. He asked