"I should not be doing my official duty to let you off on your promise," answered the sheriff.
"I would rather stay with you until two o'clock than go to the lockup."
"My time is worth too much to waste. I have a great deal of official business to attend to," said the officer; and after a pause, he added, "But if you were to give me five dollars, cash down, I think I could fix it for you."
"I haven't so much money with me, but I promise to pay it to you."
"I should prefer the cash."
Fred went to Mr. Farrington, accompanied by the sheriff, to try and borrow money enough to make up the five dollars, and to ask advice. His kind employer took him to one side and spoke low, so that the officer could not hear him. After getting the facts of the arrest, and asking a few questions, which were answered satisfactorily, Mr. Farrington turned to the sheriff and said:
"I am surprised, Mr. Coombs, that you should try to scare this boy into paying you five dollars, with the threat of taking him to the lockup. I had a better opinion of you than this," he added emphatically.
Officer Coombs hung his head and colored. He lost the official bearing with which he had so impressed our young friend.
"I am responsible for his appearance at the trial," he at last answered, in defense of his position.
"Very well; that is no reason why you should take advantage of an innocent boy who knows nothing of the law. I will go surety for him, and will be present at the trial. If you want me to give a bond for his appearance I will do so."