"It is unnecessary. You can bring a formal charge against him before Squire Marlowe to-morrow."
"The boy may escape during the night. I won't trust him."
There was a murmur of disapproval among those present. All liked Bert, and Mr. Jones, from his quick temper and ugly disposition, was by no means a favorite. The store-keeper saw that it would not be good policy to insist upon Bert's arrest, and he said, sullenly, "I will hold you responsible for his presence at the trial."
Mr. Conway smiled.
"If he is not present, I will myself see that you do not suffer in consequence. Besides, flight would be tantamount to confession, and the case would go against him by default."
"And should I in that case get the twenty-dollar bill?"
"I will take it upon me to offer no opposition," said the lawyer.
"Now, can I go?" asked Bert.
"Yes; I will accompany you home for consultation."
Bert took the can of kerosene and was about to leave the store, when the store-keeper said harshly: "Put down that kerosene! you haven't paid for it!"