Ben was sauntering along in idle mood when he came face to face with the dethroned boss.
“So it’s you, Platt, is it?” said Jim, grimly.
“I believe it is,” answered Ben, coolly.
“I’ve got a word or two to say to you,” said Jim, significantly.
“Say them quick,” said Ben, “for I’m in a hurry.”
“I’m not,” said Jim, in his old tone, “and it makes no difference whether you are or not.”
“Indeed! you are as polite as usual,” returned Ben.
“Look here, you young whelp!” Jim broke forth, unable any longer to restrain his wrath, “what, did you mean by lying about me last evening?”
“I didn’t lie about you,” said Ben, boldly.
“Yes, you did. What made you say you saw me put that wallet into Roscoe’s pocket?”