“As I ran on I could hear the terrible threats the man uttered against me, of causing my arrest. Even now I fear—hark! What’s that?”
Mr. Somnus paused in alarm, and seemed about to dart for the bunks again.
“Nothing—absolutely nothing,” answered the professor, calmly. Mr. Somnus listened, and seemed satisfied.
“I guess that fellow didn’t mean all he said,” put in Bill.
“Perhaps,” agreed the astronomer, with a sigh. “I certainly hope not.”
“You are not the only one who has troubles,” went on the traveling medicine man. “Here’s Bill.”
“What troubles has he?” asked Mr. Somnus. “Has he been predicting—reading the stars?”
“Not exactly,” answered the pitcher. And then Professor Clatter told about the proposed painting of the statue and his own warning.
“I’m glad you happened in, Tithy,” went on the vendor of the Peerless Permanent Pain Preventative, “for I’d like your opinion about this matter. I say it’s a plot to get Bill and his brothers into trouble, what do you think about it?” He detailed the reasons for his suspicions, and waited for an answer.
“Well,” began the fugitive, “not speaking by the stars at all, you understand, and making no promises for which I can be held responsible, I think you’re right, Theophilus. And I’d advise Bill to look out.”