"We have only your word for that."
"Then let me send for my sister Kate and Dick Blair."
Judge Penfold rubbed his chin reflectively.
"I think I'll have to put you under bonds," he said to John Stumpy.
"Why so? The boy's word doesn't amount to anything," put in Mr. Woodward.
"Only a matter of form, Mr. Woodward. I will make it a thousand dollars. Will you go his bondsman?"
"Of course he will," said John Stumpy, hastily. "Won't you?"
The merchant winced. "I—I guess so," he stammered. "But it's a strange proceeding."
In a few moments, by the aid of two other men, the bond was made out.
"I will make your bail a thousand dollars also," said Judge Penfold, turning to me. "I suppose it's quite useless though," he added sarcastically.