“The book I saw you kids looking at yesterday in that shack of yours.” The man tightened his grip on the boy’s arms, and Ronnie winced. And just at that moment the ledger slipped to the ground.
“So you’ve got it with you, eh? Well, that’s so much the better!” The man loosened his grip somewhat. Then he gave Ronnie a terrific shove that sent the boy sprawling headlong into the wet leaves.
Ronnie was more angry than he was hurt. He had just one idea in his mind—to get a close look at this man now that he had the opportunity. No sooner had he struck the ground than he rolled over and pulled himself up to a sitting position.
The man was bending over to pick up the ledger. But when he straightened up he was facing directly toward the boy. Ronnie found himself face to face with his opponent.
“Mr.—Mr. Caldwell!” Ronnie exclaimed. The man’s thin summer clothes were soaked to the skin and his thick, straight hair was matted to his head on top and hanging over his forehead in ropelike strands.
But Caldwell paid no attention to the boy’s remark. Book in hand, he walked off down the path in the direction of the old bakery.
“Give me back my book!” Ronnie shouted after him. “Why, why—you—” He took off after the man, leaping onto his back and clinging there with all his strength.
But he was no match for Caldwell. With his free hand the man released the boy’s grip from about his neck. Then, still holding Ronnie’s wrist, he flung the boy from him. Ronnie sailed into the bushes, rolled over several times and came to a stop. By the time he had pulled himself to his feet Caldwell had disappeared.
Dejectedly the boy turned and made his way slowly toward their office to tell Bill the disheartening news.
Bill had the door unlocked, but closed, to keep out the rain and chill. Ronnie came inside, pulled off his raincape. He didn’t have to tell Bill that something unpleasant had happened. His friend read it in Ronnie’s face.