“I say it’s a lie!” asserted Tom boldly.
“Take care, you young rascal!” exclaimed Burnett, making a step toward our hero, now on his feet.
“Easy, now,” said Peter Brush. “The boy’s under my protection. Let him alone!”
“The boy’s in my employment,” said Burnett, “and I’ll thank you not to interfere.”
“I shall interfere all the same, if I think it necessary,” said Brush, composedly.
“I am not in your employment,” said Tom, facing Burnett. “I’ve had enough of your service.”
“You say the boy is a thief,” continued Brush. “Can you prove it?”
“Yes, he managed to pick my pocket of a considerable sum of money, which he has now in his possession.”
“Don’t believe him, Mr. Brush,” said Tom.
“Easy now, Tom. How large a sum of money?” asked Brush.