“‘What horse?’ exclaimed the thief. ‘Do you think I carry horses in my pocket?’
“‘What were you doing here, then?’
“‘This fellow’s head had slipped from its pillow, and when I tried to put it back he seized me and yelled that I was murdering him! I saw no horse under the saddle.’
“‘Wait here a little,’ said Tip-Top. ‘Hold this thief till I return.’
“He went to the stable, woke the thief’s accomplice, who by this time was really asleep, and told him his companion had been captured. ‘If I can find the horse and hide it our friend will be safe, for nothing can be proved on him.’
“The man was so frightened that he told Tip-Top where he had arranged to meet the thief the next day. Then Tip-Top returned to the Mayor and his brother, who still held the thief, and took them to the house where the horse had been stabled.
“When the horse had been found and restored to its owner the Mayor said to Tip-Top that he would not only reward him handsomely but grant any request he might make.
“‘Then, your honor,’ replied Tip-Top, ‘give this man his liberty.’
“‘Why?’ asked the Mayor, much astonished.
“‘Because, your honor, he is my brother.’