"But you did not get the message."
"I am going to have that money. I worked hard enough for it. I followed the little devil until—until he jumped into the river."
"And where was his horse?" asked Tom.
"It gave out, too. There it is up there," answered the man, pointing to the place where old Hickory was lying, apparently dead.
"Perhaps the boy was drowned while trying to cross the river," said the Tinker.
"I watched him until he came to Sims'."
"Then he's safe."
"Of course he is. At least, you'll never see that message. I won't be surprised, however, if the boy dies."
"I hope he does," said Tom. "Those Howards have been in my way for fifteen years. You see, they live near me. I hate every one of them!"
"See here! I want my fifty dollars," interrupted the man. "I don't care about your Howards and your neighbors. I want my money."