"I dunno. Down where he keeps his pets I s'pose. Why?"
"Cause I'm goin' down an' find him. I'll beg you off this time, Anse, if you'll do as I say."
"What you mean, do as you say?"
"You're to stay here till I get back, no matter how long I'm away."
Anson considered. "An' you promise to get Bill to let me off?"
"Sure."
"All right, I'll stay."
"Course, if you ain't here when I get back the bargain's off. Understand?"
Anson nodded. "I'll be here," he promised.
"Bill won't bother you none if you do what I say," said Maurice as he made for the grove. Half an hour later he and Billy approached old Harry's hut and knocked gently on the door. Harry's voice bade them enter.