"But three-handed——" said Frank.
"Be afther makin' the fourth yesilf."
"I have to hold the cards for Boxer, he having no hands of his own," explained Merry.
Then it was that Gentle Bob stepped forward, saying, in a very quiet voice and polite manner, that he would be pleased to enter the game.
Now, with the exception of Frank and Bart, all knew that Bob was a very bad man to offend, and so they were willing enough that he should play, and it was soon arranged.
Frank was keen enough to see in what manner the ruffianly looking fellow with the quiet voice was regarded, and, as he was not in Holbrook in search of a quarrel, he raised no dissent. However, he gave Hodge a look that Bart understood, and the silent youth nodded. From that moment Bart watched Gentle Bob closely.
The crowd drew about the table, eager to witness a game of cards in which a dog took part.
Merry sat on a short bench, with Boxer at his side. The cards were cut, and the deal fell to Schlitzenheimer.
"Be careful, Dutchy," advised Boxer. "We're watching you, and you'd better not try any slick tricks."