All turned back on the road that led close to Oak Hall, and after discussing the wild man from various points of view, the conversation turned to other matters. The girls told of what they had been doing during the past holidays and asked the boys about themselves.
“I heard that that horrid Jasniff is under arrest,” 89 said Vera to Dave. “I am glad of it. It is a pity that Merwell got away.”
“Perhaps,” answered our hero. “But, somehow, I sometimes think that Link Merwell will turn over a new leaf.”
Vera looked back, to make sure that none of the others were near.
“Just like Mr. Plum, I suppose you mean,” she whispered. “Oh, it was splendid, what you did for him, Dave!”
“Oh, I didn’t do much for Gus.”
“My brother thinks you did. He heard the whole story. It was brave and noble of you, it was indeed!” And Vera’s face showed her earnestness.
“Well, Gus has turned out a nice fellow. I wish Merwell would turn out as good.”
“But he helped to take those jewels.”
“That is true—and that will always be a black mark against him,” said Dave, soberly.