“What is the matter with her, Laura?” asked Mrs. Morse again.
“She has somebody hidden in that tent,” said Mother Wit, calmly. “Isn’t that the truth, Lizzie? Isn’t Mr. Halliday in there—Mr. Norman Halliday?”
“The bank robber!” shrieked Lil.
“Oh, oh!” gasped Nellie.
“Hurray for Liz!” exclaimed Bobby, but in a low tone.
“It cannot be?” queried Mrs. Morse.
“Yes he is. I got him here while youse folks 206 was down talkin’ to that red-faced sheriff. He was good to me when I lived at that boardin’ house, in Albany, he was! I wouldn’t give him up to that sheriff.”
Mrs. Morse looked at Laura very gravely. “You have known about this for some time, Laura? You knew that the young man was on the island?”
“With Professor Dimp—yes,” said Mother Wit, bravely.
“Professor Dimp has his own actions to answer for,” said Jess’ mother, gravely. “But I am quite sure your mother would not approve of your trying to help such a character as this young man seems to be.”