Jack promised secrecy, and went about making friends with Mr. Simmons. In due time he secured the knife, and when Jacob was out of the room, called Fred to him and handed him the desired article.
Our hero's face lighted up triumphantly as he took it and examined it closely.
"The very one," he exclaimed. "I knew it the minute I saw it in his hands," referring to Mr. Simmons.
"Is ye crazy?" asked Jack. "By St. Patrick, ye act as if ye had found an ould friend."
"Yes—or—I mean it is just the knife I want," answered Fred, coloring and trying to show less concern. "I wish you would buy it for me. I will pay whatever he asks, but don't let him know I want it."
"And what fer, me b'y, do ye want it so much?"
"I cannot tell you just yet."
"And why not?"
"You shall know all about it after a while, but I must say nothing now."
"Some myshtery about it, I'd sthake my reputashen."