"Even though Ramund and the manager are admitted to bail, what can they do down here? You have a clear case against them," he said.
"None too strong, Howard, without little Jim. As I see it, everything depends on her testimony. Have you decided about her?"
"Yes, I have," he began, relieved when the subject was raised. "We talked all night about it. For a while she would cry bitterly and say she would never leave me here alone, then for an hour we would be planning for her to go, only for her to come back and curl herself in my lap and tearfully declare she would never leave me here alone. We both realize it's a turning point in our lives that requires courage and, Wood, do you know I believe she is the braver. Well, in the night we came to this definite conclusion—that if you will help us she will go as soon as I can get her ready. Do you realize what it means for me to part with her? It's like tearing my heart and soul out."
"Howard, I believe I do, but her safety is most important now. We may be away a week and you can't leave her here."
"I know that, but she has been raised here on the Keys, dressed like a boy, and has never known either girls or women. Just what clothing she will need, and how to get it, is a puzzle to both of us."
That was a complication I had overlooked and hesitated a moment. I thought of Mrs. Ike Barry.
"Howard, a friend and his wife are at the hotel at Key West. I believe she would be glad to help us out and fix little Jim for the trip. Her permanent outfit and clothing it is best to leave to someone with whom I can arrange at the school."
"That sounds good, but, Wood, I am afraid that would be loading you unduly with my personal affairs."
"You will have ample opportunity to square yourself with me before we get through," I replied, laughing. "Little Jim partly belongs to me; besides, she has become an important Government witness."