"Then it is time you began. Why did you accept the office if you know nothing about it?"
"Look here," and the Squire's face became red with anger. "I don't wish for you to dictate to me in that manner. Who are you, anyway?"
"I am John Handyman, working for Jake Jukes at present."
"H'm. And so you expect me to bother my head about you?"
"I certainly do, and what is more, I shall see that you do it, even though I am only a hired man."
Something in Douglas' voice and bearing made an impression upon Squire Hawkins. He squirmed uneasily in his chair and his face grew redder than ever.
"Confound it all!" he growled. "Why do you bother me with this matter? What reason had the men to attack you? They were only sky-larking, no doubt. Having a bit of fun, most likely."
"Mighty poor fun for me, though, especially when the cudgels fell upon my head. I don't like such fun, and I want you to take steps to stop it in the future."
"Who are the men?" the Squire asked.
"I only know the names of three at present. They are Tom Totten, Pete
Rollins and Ben Stubbles."