“My paper route isn’t doing well any more,” he complained. “I’ve decided to give it up.”
“While you’re giving things up, you might cut out candy,” Chips reminded him, noticing that even as he talked Ross was nibbling at a chocolate bar. “I guess you have enough spending money.”
Brad gave Chips a warning glance and he subsided into silence. Nevertheless, the seeds of resentment were deeply planted among the other Cubs. Nearly all of the boys felt that Ross was taking a most selfish attitude.
“All set to go to the bank?” Brad asked the group.
The boys had gathered at Mr. Hatfield’s house to pool their money. Now, accompanied by the Cub leader, they walked three short blocks to the bank.
At such an early morning hour, few customers were in the institution. Mr. Hatfield inquired for Mr. Kain and was told he would be found upstairs in a balcony office.
The Cubs trooped up the stairs, presenting themselves at the official’s desk.
“Good morning, boys,” Mr. Kain said, but his voice, they noted, was not very friendly.
“We’ve brought the money,” Brad said, taking out his wallet.
“Oh, the money,” Mr. Kain repeated vaguely. He frowned. Then he said: “I’ve been thinking the matter over since I talked with you. The bank feels that it would be better not to allow the Cubs to use the property again. We’ll forget the amount you owe.”