"I mean just what I say."
"You have insulted me, and I will horsewhip you!" exclaimed the rogue in assumed virtuous indignation.
He seized Mark by the shoulder and was about to thrust him forcibly aside, when a stout, thick-set man rose and ranged himself by Mark's side.
"Young man," he said, "give back the pocketbook as the boy tells you."
"I have no pocketbook."
As he spoke he dexterously dropped it to the floor of the stage.
"Here's your pocketbook, ma'am," said a nurse girl, picking it up.
"Thank you!" responded the old lady, relieved.
"What did I tell you?" exclaimed the dude triumphantly. "Boy, you're too fresh! I am a young man of high family. It is most ridiculous to charge me with stealing."
"I saw you with your hand in the lady's pocket," said Mark calmly.