There was a best service of china, which was only used when we had company, and a best set of teaspoons, which I kept in the drawer of a bureau in my own room above-stairs.

I Was in the habit of keeping this drawer locked, and putting the key under a small clock on the mantel-piece.

The first time that I had shown Tomah how to arrange matters for visitors, I had brought the silver and put it on the table myself.
Soon after, we were to have company to tea again, and I explained to Tomah that the best china must be used.

What was my surprise, on going through the dining-room a short time after, to see not only the new china, but the "company silver" also, on the table! I requested our mother, who could speak with him, to inquire into the matter.
Tomah said, very coolly, "He got the silver where it was kept." "Did he find the drawer open ?" "No--he opened it with a key." "Was the key in the drawer ?" "No--it was under that thing on the shelf." "How did he know it was kept there ?" This was what Mr.Tomah declined telling.

We could never ascertain whether he had watched my movements at any time.