“You shall have some food,” said Joe. “Joshua, where are the provisions? We may as well sit down and lunch.”
“Jest as you say, Joe. I most generally have an appetite.”
There was a mountain spring within a stone’s throw. Joshua took a tin pail and brought some of the sparkling beverage, which he offered first to Hogan.
Hogan drank greedily. His throat was parched and dry, and he needed it.
He drew a deep breath of relief.
“I feel better,” said he. “I was in search of a spring when that cursed beast spied me and gave me chase.”
They sat down under the shade of a large tree and lunched.
“What sort of luck have you had since you tried to break into my restaurant, Mr. Hogan?” asked Joe.
Hogan changed color. The question was an awkward one.
“Who told you I tried to enter your restaurant?” he asked.