"Maybe he'll lay it to Mark."
James was not very much disturbed at this supposition.
"That would be a good joke!" he said.
"Not for Mark."
"Mark can take care of himself. He was out with a gun as well as we."
"His mother couldn't afford to pay for the cow," said Tom, who was rather more considerate than his companion.
"That's none of my business. And, Tom, there's something I want to say to you."
"Go ahead!"
"If Mark is accused, don't you go to saying it's a mistake. Remember it's none of your business."
Tom looked uncomfortable, having some conscience.