“Wouldn't it be better, sir,” the constable asked, “to wait till the deed is completed, then we can lay our hands on White as a receiver?”
“No,” Mr. Porson replied, “for in that case the boy would have to appear with him in the dock, and that I wish of all things to avoid.”
So saying he walked quickly on and entered the shop.
Mather was leaning across the counter while the man was examining the pencil case by the light of the candle.
“Five shillings,” the man said, “and no more. I was nearly getting into trouble over that last job of yours.”
“But it's worth a great deal more than that,” Mather said. “You might give me ten.”
“Well, take it back then,” the man said, pushing it across the counter.
“Thank you, I will take it myself,” Mr. Porson said quietly, as he advanced and stretched out his hand.
Mather turned round with a sudden cry, and then stood the picture of silent terror.
“As for you,” the master said indignantly to the dealer, “you scoundrel, if you had your deserts I would hand you over to the constable, who is outside the door, as a receiver of stolen goods, and for inciting this boy to theft. I heard you offer him a sum of money for it which shows that you knew it was stolen; but your time will come, sir, and you will hang over the gate of York prison as many a poor wretch far less guilty than yourself has done;” for in those days death was the punishment of receivers of stolen goods, as well as of these convicted of highway robbery and burglary.