From time to time Abner, as he thought how neatly
the tramp had been sold, burst into a loud laugh, which was echoed from the hay wagon. Rudolph was not only angry, but puzzled.
Does the boy hope to escape me?” he asked himself. “If so, he will find himself badly mistaken. He will find that I am not to be trifled with.”
“Say, squire, what makes you look so glum?” asked Abner. “Maybe it’s because I didn’t let you in when you called so late last night. We don’t receive visitors after midnight.”
Rudolph scowled, but said nothing.
How long has the boy been with you?” asked Abner, further.
Since he was born,” answered the tramp. “Ain’t I his father?”
“I don’t know. If it’s a conundrum, I give it up.”
“Well, I am, and no one has a right to keep him from me,” said the tramp, in a surly manner.
I wouldn’t keep him from you for a minute,” said Abner innocently.