“Oh, about a number of things. You are using tools and materials here that belong to me.”
“For which I shall pay you.”
“You have taken the run of my shop, and some people say that there have been a lot of parts stolen from the plant. I know there is a lot of stuff missing.”
Mr. Hardy’s face took an expression that Ben had never seen there before. He advanced straight up to his malicious employer, his eyes blazing with indignation and scorn.
“Do you mean to intimate that I am a thief?” he demanded.
“I am not saying,” observed Jasper Saxton, wilting, but his mean soul showing in its true colors.
“Shame!” cried Ben, wrought up indescribably. “Don’t do it, father!”
Quick as a flash Ben sprang forward to arrest the descending arm of his father. Had he not done so, Jasper Saxton would have measured his length on the ground. As it was, he dodged out of the way, white and scared.
“You are right, Ben,” spoke Mr. Hardy in a husky tone, but controlling his emotion. “Mr. Saxton, my boy has said it: Shame on you—I will thank you to leave these premises.”
“Take care! take care!” growled the manufacturer threateningly.