“But, for pity’s sake, what for?”
“If you knew what I was—what I did—”
“What did you do, Barnabetta?” queried Ruth, with some excitement.
“I—I stole that old book you’re huntin’ for. It was me took it out of Neale Sorber’s bag. That’s what!”
The confession burst from Barnabetta wildly.
“I knew there was money in it. I saw it when he was up to the winter quarters of the circus at Tiverton. That other girl knew I saw it. Hasn’t she told you?”
“Who—Aggie?” asked the amazed Ruth.
“Yes. She knows what I am—a thief!”
“No! Oh, no, Barnabetta! Don’t call yourself that. And Agnes never said a word to me against you. Agnes likes you.”
“I don’t see how she can. She knew I wanted to steal the book. She must have guessed I got it out of Neale’s bag Saturday night. And I guess now she knows what I did with it.”