“I will never side with a set of thieves!” I burst out warmly, indignant at such a proposition.
“Well, then, suit yourself,” he replied.
He had hardly spoken before he sprang upon me. I was taken by surprise, and before I could realize it I was on my back and he was on top of me.
“Let me up!” I cried.
“Not much. If you want to be an enemy to your own uncle and his friends be so; but you have got to take the consequences.”
We had a short struggle after this without more words.
I did my best to get away, but it was useless. Mr. Norton was thoroughly aroused, and his muscles were like iron. Drawing back his hand, he hit me between the eyes, and before I could recover he caught up a rope and bound me hand and foot.