CHAPTER III
REFF RITTER’S CONFESSION
“He got down just in time,” said the strange boy, as he assisted Pepper in making Jack comfortable on the grass. “Is there a well handy? If there is I’ll get some water.”
“There is a well back of the church,” answered Pepper. “But I reckon my chum needs a chance to get back his wind more than anything else,” he added.
The strange youth ran off, to return presently with a large tin dipper full of water. With this he and Pepper bathed the young major’s face and gave him a drink. Jack soon opened his eyes and sat up.
“Did I—I fall?” he stammered.
“Not until you were on the ground,” answered Pepper.
“You held out just long enough and no longer,” said the strange boy, with a short laugh. “You were plucky to hold out as long as you did.”
“It was a terrible experience,” answered Jack soberly. “I thought at one time I’d surely lose my grip and break my neck!”
“You keep quiet awhile,” advised Pepper. “You need a chance to rest and get back your nerve, that’s all.”
“He certainly had nerve!” said the strange youth, with a grin. “But, say, you promised to tell me what it was all about. I know there is a military school near here called Putnam Hall? Do you go there?”