Billy made a face, as he replied in scornful tones: "'Fore I'd run away from tame Indians!" For many a day thereafter, if Billy wanted anything that belonged to Betty, it was his if he but threatened to say "Tame Indians."
CHAPTER III.
BILLY GOES SWIMMING
Early the following afternoon, Billy saw 'Phonse LeBrinn throwing stones at the boat-house, and, as he liked to play with 'Phonse much better than with his nearest neighbours, the twins in the green cottage, he flew down the bank fast as he could go.
"Oh, Frenchy," he panted, "I wish I could run like a deer, way you do. I can't run worth a cent."
"Shouldn't think you could," grinned 'Phonse.
"Let's go the other side of the boat-house," suggested Billy, "I'm 'fraid, if my mother sees me down here, she'll think of something she wants me to do."
'Phonse was sure of it, so he and Billy straightway sought a hiding-place.
"What have you got that tog on for?" asked 'Phonse.