It was like you to do it , and I love you for it , though it 's never right to tell lies , even for a friend . '' `` What is it ? '' cried Nat , for Dan said not a word , only lifted up his head , as if a weight of some sort had fallen off his back . `` Dan did not take Tommy 's money ; '' and Mr. Bhaer quite shouted it , he was so glad . `` Who did ? '' cried the boys in a chorus . Mr. Bhaer pointed to one empty seat , and every eye followed his finger , yet no one spoke for a minute , they were so surprised . `` Jack went home early this morning , but he left this behind him ; '' and in the silence Mr. Bhaer read the note which he had found tied to his door-handle when he rose . `` I took Tommy 's dollar . I was peeking in through a crack and saw him put it there . I was afraid to tell before , though I wanted to . I did n't care so much about Nat , but Dan is a trump , and I ca n't stand it any longer . I never spent the money ; it 's under the carpet in my room , right behind the washstand . I 'm awful sorry . I am going home , and do n't think I shall ever come back , so Dan may have my things . `` JACK '' It was not an elegant confession , being badly written , much blotted , and very short ; but it was a precious paper to Dan ; and , when Mr. Bhaer paused , the boy went to him , saying , in a rather broken voice , but with clear eyes , and the frank , respectful manner they had tried to teach him , `` I 'll say I 'm sorry now , and ask you to forgive me , sir . '' `` It was a kind lie , Dan , and I ca n't help forgiving it ; but you see it did no good , '' said Mr. Bhaer , with a hand on either shoulder , and a face full of relief and affection . `` It kept the boys from plaguing Nat . That 's what I did it for . It made him right down miserable .
I did n't care so much , '' explained XXXXX , as if glad to speak out after his hard silence .
Bhaer Dan Nat Tommy door-handle left minute morning right washstand