"I never dreamed of such a thing! I guess I did look funny but it was because of those other boys," she replied with an expressive nod up the street.
"The rascals! I came near giving them up that day! I hope it didn't spoil your fun! How the rest did guy that fellow who tried to strike you! I bet he'll never try to strike a girl again!"
His tone giving assurance that he had effectually disposed of the delinquent caused his hearer a thrill of satisfaction.
"But I'm jolly glad you weren't afraid of me!" he concluded with an air of relief.
Then the humor of the situation seemed to strike Alene.
"The idea! No, I wasn't a bit afraid. I knew you didn't mean to rob me but I intended to rob you!" she said in a mischievous tone.
He gave a ringing laugh and looked very much relieved.
"Well, say, I would never have suspected it! What did you want, the fishin' rod or bait?"
"No, not those ugly, squirming things. I've seen Hugh digging for them!" she drew back from the can with a look of disgust.
"Well, I've nothin' else worth takin' 'cept the fish!"