The chairman had no idea of carrying out
the latter design, and he knew very well that such an extreme measure
would not be needed. It was simply a ruse to get the safe open. And in
this he was right. When Farrington heard their terrible words, and saw the
noose made ready, with a groan he sank upon his knees before the safe.
With trembling hands he turned the steel disk, but somehow the combination
would not work. Again and again he tried, the people becoming more and
more impatient. They believed he was only mocking them, while in reality
he was so confused that he hardly knew what he was doing. But at length
the right turn was made and the heavy door swung open upon its iron
hinges.
"Bring out the stuff," demanded the chairman.
One by one the articles were brought forward, and last of all from a back
corner Farrington slowly dragged forth an iron box with a white cross mark
upon it.
A shout of triumph rose from those who first beheld it, and then yells of
derision.
"Order!" commanded the chairman.
"Is that Billy Fletcher's box?"
"Y-y-es."
"And you knew it was there all the time, and let Parson John get the blame
for stealing it?"
"Y-y--es.
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