“We’re not going,” said Bob stoutly.
“No indeed,” chimed in Jerry.
The boys talked of nothing but the robbery as they started back towards Cresville, having locked the boat up. When they got to Mr. Slade’s store they found a big crowd about the place. They elbowed their way through the throng and were about to enter, when a little man with a small bunch of whiskers on his chin stopped them.
“Here, where you boys goin’?” he asked.
“Inside,” answered Ned.
“I guess not, young man. I’m a deputy constable, sworn in special t’ maintain order an’ not to let anyone inside. I’m goin’ t’ do it, tew, an’ you can bet your bottom dollar on it,” and the little man threw back his coat and displayed a big tin star.
“Who swore you in?” asked Ned.
“Chief Dalton, that’s who, an’ I’ll arrest ye, if ye make any more threatenin’ moves.”
“Well, it’s my father’s store, and these are friends of mine,” said Ned. “We want to go in.”
“Look here!” exclaimed the little deputy excitedly. “Look me in th’ eye, young man,” and he pulled down the lower lid of the optic, placing his face close to Ned’s.