Now I highly disapprove of this foolish form of jesting; it is neither clever nor funny, and is often very unkind.

I beg whoever has done this thing to come forward at once and replace the pendant.

She need have no fear, for she will not be punished or even scolded, though she must give me her word never to repeat such a prank." Miss Bowes stopped, and looked expectantly at the rows of intent eyes fixed upon her.

Nobody spoke and nobody moved.

There was dead silence in the hall.