“Why haven’t you pledged that chain?” said Harry.
“Because people are so suspicious, and I was afraid. There you have the truth.”
“I don’t believe it,” cried Harry, excitedly.
“Well then, don’t. Your sister will. If you want me to bring the police on your track, say so.”
In a furtive way, he noted Harry’s start of dread, and went on.
“Take the chain or a watch yourself, and if the pawnbroker is suspicious, he’ll either detain it till you can give a good account of how you came by it, or send for a policeman to follow you to you lodgings.”
“But I am quite penniless!” cried Harry.
“Then why didn’t you say so, old fellow? Long as I’ve got a pound you’re welcome to it, and always were. I’m not a fine-weather friend, you know that. There you are, two halves. That’ll keep you going for a week.”
“But I don’t want to keep borrowing of you,” said Harry. “We have enough to do what I want. A sovereign will do little more than pay for these lodgings.”
“Enough for a day or two, old fellow, and do, for goodness’ sake, have a little more faith in a man you have proved.”