During this brief conversation Rob knew that the ’squire was watching them with baleful eyes, and when he started homeward, leaving the crowd still standing about the body of the dead tiger, he knew the other was glad of his riddance. He heard Dr. Menter say:
“Give that boy a chance and he will make a smart man.”
’Squire Hardy lost no time in replying.
“All rogues and cutthroats possess such smartness. I am surprised, doctor——”
The rest was lost by Rob, nor did he hear the next remark of the physician, as he hastened on his way toward Break o’ Day.
He had got about halfway home, when he was surprised by a shuffling sound in the bushes by the roadside. His mind still alive to tiger fights, his first thought was naturally of such animals, and he looked about for some means of self-defense.
CHAPTER XVII.
A FRIENDLY CALL.
At his second glance Rob caught sight of a boyish figure skulking in the growth, and recognizing a familiar form, he called out:
“Hello, is that you, Chick?”
“Shades of Cherry Corner!” replied the well-known voice of that boy. “It’s Little Hickory, Ruddy!”