Make a thorough investigation before announcing a theft before a body of
students. Publicity should be your last resource. Wait several days, if
necessary, until the affair has had time to circulate among the
students. It often happens that by observing these precautions the
principal will have the whole matter laid before him without any
particular effort on his part.
When the guilty one is found, take him into your trust; treat him as if
he were a man twice as big as he is. Privately tell him that his act is
to be looked upon with the gravest concern. Do not question his motive,
but consider together how reparation can be made.