"I haven't been far," said his nephew in a crestfallen tone. "I went over to the American side for a while and thought it over. I decided I wouldn't be a banker. I made up my mind I'd stay here as long as Morton did and lay for him. But of course I didn't want you to get wise, so I kept out of sight until I could grow whiskers. I'm glad they're gone."
He rubbed his chin tenderly.
"After I got whiskers enough I looked around for something to do. A fellow had a boat cheap and I bought it. I had money enough for that. Then I went to work."
Polly Dawson gasped.
"You—were that boatman!"
The nephew nodded.
"You mean the burglar?" demanded Mr. Davidson, whirling upon her.
"You only thought I was a burglar," explained Billy. "I just dropped in now and then when I needed anything."
"You unprincipled rascal! Do you know the Cain you've raised?"
"Something of it, Uncle Henry. I didn't mean to make too much trouble, of course—not any more than was necessary."