"Every blessed door is locked, and so are the windows. I can't get
within two rooms of the office."

"Did you hear anything?" asked George.

"Yes; I heard a noise like somebody stamping."

"Where did it come from?"

"I think it came from the stone cell. But it sounded like somebody
stamping on wood."

"Perhaps it came from the empty storeroom," cried Dick. "More than
likely Mr. Grinder has placed Sam and Tubby there. I wish he'd come
here. I'd question him."

"Your wish is gratified," whispered George. "Here he comes now!"

The door at the far end of the room had opened, and now Jasper Grinder
came forth in a hurry. He was about to pass to another room at the rear
of the school when Dick stopped him.

"Mr. Grinder, may I ask what you have done with Sam?" he asked.

"I have placed him in confinement until Captain Putnam returns," was the
snappy answer.

"Did you put him in the stone cell?"

"It is not for you to question me, Rover."