`` You are the only one who knew where it was , '' said Franz . `` I ca n't help it I did n't take it . I tell you I did n't I did n't ! '' cried Nat , in a desperate sort of way . `` Gently , gently , my son ! What is all this noise about ? '' and Mr. Bhaer walked in among them . Tommy repeated the story of his loss , and , as he listened , Mr. Bhaer 's face grew graver and graver ; for , with all their faults and follies , the lads till now had been honest . `` Take your seats , '' he said ; and , when all were in their places , he added slowly , as his eye went from face to face with a grieved look , that was harder to bear than a storm of words , `` Now , boys , I shall ask each one of you a single question , and I want an honest answer . I am not going to try to frighten , bribe , or surprise the truth out of you , for every one of you have got a conscience , and know what it is for . Now is the time to undo the wrong done to Tommy , and set yourselves right before us all . I can forgive the yielding to sudden temptation much easier than I can deceit . Do n't add a lie to the theft , but confess frankly , and we will all try to help you make us forget and forgive . '' He paused a moment , and one might have heard a pin drop , the room was so still ; then slowly and impressively he put the question to each one , receiving the same answer in varying tones from all . Every face was flushed and excited , so that Mr. Bhaer could not take color as a witness , and some of the little boys were so frightened that they stammered over the two short words as if guilty , though it was evident that they could not be . When he came to Nat , his voice softened , for the poor lad looked so wretched , Mr. Bhaer felt for him . He believed him to be the culprit , and hoped to save the boy from another lie , by winning him to tell the truth without fear . `` Now , my son , give me an honest answer . Did you take the money ? '' `` No , sir ! ''
and XXXXX looked up at him imploringly .
Bhaer Franz Nat Tommy color money right seats storm witness