“Oh, Smith!” she called. “Peter Smith! You 're just the man I been looking for, Smith!”
Peter stared at her uncomprehendingly for one instant, and as he understood her useless little strategy, his eyes softened.
“I'm just as much obliged to you, Mrs. Potter,” he said, “but I've already told this man who I am. I guess I'll go now.”
He looked from one to the other helplessly and Mrs. Potter put out her arms and took the sleeping boy.
“Peter, you're a perfect fool!” she said angrily.
“I guess I am,” said Peter. “Yes, I guess I am!”
He bent and kissed Buddy's warm cheek.
“I'd like to be somewheres else when he wakes up,” he explained and turned away. He had started down the driveway when Mr. Briggles stepped after him and laid a detaining hand on his arm.
“Wait!” said Mr. Briggles. “The sheriffs deputy is in the office here; he has been looking for you.”
“Oh, that's all right!” said Peter. “You can tell Joe I've gone on up to the jail,” and he drew his arm away and went on down to the street. Mrs. Potter called after him.