“He told me a story about being in danger of a beating from his mother.”
Standish laughed.
“His mother is a poor weak woman weighing about ninety pounds. She isn’t strong enough to harm a fly.”
“In other words the boy lied.”
“Tip has remarkable inventive powers. He may make a story-writer in time.”
“I am quite sure he doesn’t excel you—in invention, Mr. Standish.”
“Thank you, dear boy. It is pleasant to be appreciated. You do me proud, you really do.”
“Never mind compliments, Mr. Standish. Of course you had some object in luring me here. What is it?”
“I admire the quickness with which you come to business. Really you are a very smart boy.”
“With all my smartness I have fallen into a trap. Now, what do you want?”