"I believe that is his name. He offered to defend the Barton boy, and would not permit him to be arrested."
Percy was glad to hear this. He was mean and selfish, but he was not mean enough to wish Bert to suffer for a crime of which he knew him to be innocent.
"What was done, then?" he asked, after a pause.
"The boy was allowed to go home, but his trial is to take place before me this morning at ten o'clock. You can be present, if you desire."
"I—don't—know as I do," said Percy.
His father looked surprised.
"I thought you would be eager to be there," he said.
"I may come in," said Percy; "but I am sorry for Bert, and I should not like to see him under arrest."
"You are too good-hearted, Percy," said his mother. "I am sure I hope the boy did not do what is charged, though I don't think there is the slightest doubt of it; but if he is guilty I want him punished. That is the only way to protect the community from further thefts."
"What would mother say if she knew I did it?" thought Percy, shivering. "I wish I hadn't done it."