"Of course I'll be mum, but it will be known that we have been out with guns this afternoon."
"So has Mark Manning."
James looked significantly at Tom, and Tom understood.
Poor Mark was to bear the blame for a deed he didn't do, and all to screen James.
"It's mean!" Tom said to himself, "but I can't go back on James. I want to keep in with him, and I suppose I must consent."
"Well?" demanded James, impatiently.
"It won't come out through me," answered Tom, but not with alacrity.
"And if Mark is accused you won't say anything?"
"N-o!" said Tom, slowly.
"Then let us put for home!"