“Do you know me?”
“I infer from these handcuffs and your under 230 uniform that you are an escaped convict,” answered Ralph.
“Know a good many people, do you?”
“Why, yes, I do,” answered Ralph.
“Where is Stanley Junction?”
“About forty miles north of here. I live there.”
“You do? you do?” cried the convict, springing up in a state of intense excitement. “Here, lad, don’t think me harsh or mean, or cruel, but you have got to stay with me. You would betray me to the police.”
“No, I would not,” declared Ralph.
“You would, I know—it’s human nature. There is a big reward out for me. Then, too, you know people. Yes, you must stay with me.”
“I can’t help you any—why should you detain me?” insisted Ralph.