“The next move,” replied Hal, “is to face Mr. Barriscale.”
“Gee whiz! That’s a tough one.”
“I know it’s tough. But it’s got to be done.”
“Sure it has. It’s the only proper thing to do. Might as well order harps for the glory land, though. There won’t be enough left of us to make a decent dish-rag of when he gets through with us. Well, come along!”
“But you’re not going.”
“Sure I’m going.”
“No, you’re not. I won’t stand for it. I won’t take any other boy with me on this errand. If I’m alone I can face the music. If you go along it’ll take the starch right out of me.”
“Rats! I’ve got to take my share.”
“I know how you feel. But you can help more by staying away. I’ve made up my mind.”
For a moment Slicker looked earnestly at his companion to discover if possible whether he really meant what he was saying, and when he found that he did, he made no further effort to accompany him.