The editor fitted the tips of his fingers together very accurately while he looked hard at Ned. He spoke slowly and impressively.
"Considering the very serious nature of the crimes with which you are charged and the amount fixed for bail, your sureties must repose a great deal of confidence in you. I hope that you will not abuse it."
"Naw, sir, I ain't got no notion o' runnin' away," declared Ned stoutly.
Both the editor and the foreman were looking at him very gravely.
"Who were your bondsmen?" asked the editor.
"Sir?" said Ned, bewildered by their manner.
"Who gave bail for you?" The editor varied the phrase.
"I dunno, sir," replied the little devil.
The foreman grinned triumphantly.
"Don't know?" echoed the editor amazed.