Mark took it, and opening it, saw that it contained three dollars in bills, and a dollar and seventy-five cents in silver.
"Yes, sir," he said; "this answers the description."
"Give it back to the young lady with my compliments," said Buffington with unabashed assurance. "Express my regrets at the unfortunate mistake. I now remember how it occurred. I saw the purse on the floor where she had doubtless dropped it, and supposing it to be my own put it into my pocket. I was so busily engaged, reading the volume of sermons which I carry with me that it made little impression on my mind."
"I will tell her what you say, Mr. Buffington," said Mark gravely.
Of course he might have expressed doubt of the accuracy of his companion's statement, but he had accomplished his purpose, and did not care to humiliate Buffington farther.
"Good morning, young man," said Buffington with Christian forgetfulness of Mark's errand.
"Good morning, sir."
When Mark had left the car Buffington's face underwent a change. He looked absolutely ferocious.
"To think I should have been trapped and worsted by a kid!" he said to himself. "The boy is about as cool and resolute as any I ever saw. I hope I shall some day have a chance to get even with him."
Mark returned to his own car and paused at Miss Loring's seat.