"My sister's got a very rough temper—that's why."
"We can believe that," said Jack, "better than the other."
"Look here, Jack," said Dick, who was getting irritated, "you may find that I've got the same kind of temper if you keep on badgering me about the boy. I say he's to be trusted."
"He can be trusted under our eye. Have you any objection to our detaining him?"
"There's no need."
"I say there is. You've let him into the knowledge of this place. He'll blow on us some day."
"Do as you like," said Dick; "I don't care. I wash my hands of the responsibility."
"That's all we want," said Bill. "We need a young one to help us in our plans. If this nephew of yours is as brave as you say, he'll do. What time was he to come here?"
"Twelve."
"Then it's a minute past the time. I don't think he'll come."