"I must meet Ben, and enjoy his discomfort," thought Sam.
He scrambled down from the tree, and cautiously made a short cut for the road, unseen by Ben. He posted himself at a place where Ben must emerge. He walked along, apparently absorbed in thought, till he came face to face with Ben, who, very much ashamed of his appearance, was walking as fast as his embarrassing clothing would allow.
"Good gracious, Ben Brayton!" he exclaimed, in affected amazement. "Why, what possesses you to go round in this style?"
"No choice of mine. I couldn't help it," said Ben, ruefully. "I went in swimming. Some scamp stole my clothes, and left these traps in their place."
"Well, upon my word, Ben, really you do cut the queerest figure I ever saw!" said Sam, giving vent to his pent-up mirth.
"I don't see anything to laugh at," said Ben, in a most aggrieved tone.
"You would if you could only see yourself," said Sam,—and he burst out with laughter again.
"Do you mean to insult me?" said Ben, wrathfully.