At first Richard demurred. He did not wish to "tattle" on anybody, and, besides, not having a forward nature, he shrank from the exposure.
But Frank soon talked him out of this, and by the time they reached the Massanets' home Richard decided to "have it out" the first thing in the morning.
But upon reaching the store the following day a disappointment awaited him. Mr. Williams had gone to Boston, and would not be back for several days.
"I hate to tell Mr. Mann," said Richard. "I guess I'll wait till Mr.
Williams returns."
"I wouldn't," replied Frank. "I'd have it off my mind at once." But the thought of facing Mr. Mann was not a pleasant one, and the boy hesitated. While deliberating upon what to do the office boy appeared.
"Mr. Mann wants you down in his office right away," he said to Richard.
"What, again?"
"Yes, sir. Told me to tell you to come right down."
"Oh, Frank, I'm sure something is wrong!" cried Richard, when the boy was gone.
"It looks so," replied the stock-clerk. "Never mind. Remember you are in the right, and keep a stiff upper lip."