A cry of rage burst from most of the men upon hearing this. But one or two drew rough hands across their faces, as if to hide them for a moment.
CHAPTER V.
CYRIL'S SENTENCE.
"You little prig!" sneered the Captain of the band. But he did not look at Cyril. "Preaching at us!" cried another man indignantly.
"He wants taking down a peg or two," said a third.
"What sinners we must be!" scoffed a fourth.
"Leave him alone," growled one whose heart the boy's brave, noble words had touched. "Let him be."
"Aye, do," said a younger man. But he spoke timidly, looking down on the ground as he did so. "In case—in case," he added, "the youngster may be right."
"Right! Hark at him! Hark at Green!" jeered two or three rough voices.
The Captain looked angrily around at the men, and then at the boy. He felt thoroughly out of temper.