"Frank!" cried Professor Scotch, in amazement.
"Shimminy Gristmas!" gurgled Hans Dunnerwust, in a dazed way.
The manner of the old man changed in a twinkling.
"You are insolent, boy! You had better be careful!"
"Now you threaten," laughed Frank. "Well, I expected as much from a beggar, a fraud, and a scoundrel!"
Professor Scotch and Hans fell into each other's arms, overcome with excitement and wonder.
Frank was calm and deliberate, and he did not lift his voice above the tone used in ordinary conversation.
Still another step did the man fall back, and then a grating snarl broke from his lips, and he seemed overcome with rage. He leaned forward, hissing:
"You insulting puppy!"
"The truth must always seem like an insult to a scoundrel."