“That was a near shave, King,” said Walter.
King knew it, although he did not answer. He was pale, and directly they landed he ran off to his home, hardly thanking them for their timely assistance.
CHAPTER II.
THE FIRST OF APRIL.
IT was the first day of April, and a lovely morning, as Alfred was strolling slowly to school. In the distance he saw Cox and King talking earnestly together, and as he came near they took out some coppers and counted them. Since the boat accident they had been less unfriendly, and often walked to school with him.
“Davidson,” said King, “I wish you would just get us something from Mr. Cottenham’s; there’s a good fellow. Here’s a piece of paper with the names of the things written down, so you need only give it to him. Here’s threepence to pay for them. We will wait here for you.”
Alfred read the paper. On it was written: 1d. of pidgon’s milk in a peny vile, and 1d. of strongest strap-oil for the barer for his trouble.
“You wrote this, Cox, didn’t you?” inquired Alfred, smiling the smile of the innocent.
“Yes; why do you ask? It’s written plain enough, isn’t it?” asked Cox.
“Yes, it’s plain enough, and I can read it all right.”