"The fact is, Randolph, you expect too much. If you want to break friendship, all right."
Randolph was amazed at this unexpected independence on the part of one whom he regarded as his bond slave; but, being hardly prepared to part with him, especially as his other follower, Tom Harper, had partially thrown off his allegiance, thought it prudent to be satisfied with Sam's expressions of loyalty, even if they did not go as far as he wished.
Randolph missed Luke at school on the day after the trial. Of course, he had no idea that our hero was out of school, and hastily concluded that on account of his trial he was ashamed to show himself.
"I don't wonder he doesn't want to show himself," he remarked to Tom Harper.
"Why not? He has been acquitted."
"Never mind. He has been under arrest, and may yet be guilty in spite of his acquittal. Have you seen him to-day?"
"No."
"Probably he is hiding at home. Well, it shows some sort of shame."
On his way home from school Randolph was destined to be surprised. Not far from his own house he met Luke, arrayed in his new suit, with a chain that looked like gold crossing his waistcoat. Instead of looking confused and ashamed, Luke looked uncommonly bright and cheerful.
Randolph was amazed. What could it all mean? He had intended not to notice Luke, but to pass him with a scornful smile, but his curiosity got the better of him.