CHAPTER XXIII
THE LAST BOND OF FRIENDSHIP
While Harry had been explaining to Baldry what had happened at the shed, Plunger and his two companions held fast to the door, under the impression that Baldry was within. Plunger was in a high state of glee at the capture he had made, and as soon as Harry had gone commenced crowing loudly, explaining as he did so that "as old Baldy seemed to be going in for dancing, he must give him a tune to dance to."
"Put the soft pedal on for a bit, Freddy," said Viner. "He's saying things to himself. Let's listen."
Plunger, who had nearly crowed himself hoarse, kept silent for a moment, as a smothered voice from within travelled through the door.
"Open the door—open the door!"
"Keep your wool on, Baldy!" retorted Plunger, in his most provoking tones. "Drop the clog-dancing, and give us a song; it's getting monotonous. What's the best rhyme for Baldy? How're the birds, beasts, and fishes getting on? What's the kingdom you've sprinted to—animal, vegetable, or mineral? Any more paragraphs for Jessell? We'll take them along."
"Open the door! I'll—I'll smash you when I get out of this!" came the voice from within.
"Smash us? Oh, oh, Baldy!" commenced Plunger, but Viner stopped him.
"Quiet, Freddy. Listen a moment. It doesn't sound to me like Baldy."