"Then tell me where you keep your money!"
"That I will not do!"
"Then I'll see if I can't find a way to make you."
As he spoke the young man grabbed the hermit by the throat. He concluded too hastily that old Anthony was in his power. He was destined to a surprise.
"Let the old man alone!" cried Mark, indignantly.
Lyman Taylor looked up in surprise and some alarm. But when he saw that the words proceeded from a boy, he laughed derisively.
Mark dropped his bundles, and taking the musket pointed it
at the ruffian, saying: "Let go, or I will shoot."
"Mind your own business, you young bantam, or I'll wring your neck!" he said contemptuously. "Now, let me know where you keep your money," he said, turning once more to the old man, and preparing to choke him into an avowal of his secret.
"Let go, instantly, or I will shoot!" exclaimed Mark, now thoroughly aroused.