“That’s because he ran away again,” Dan informed the widow. “Police still are looking for him.”
“Like as not he wouldn’t want to stay here anyway,” Mrs. Jones said, her gaze sweeping the untidy yard. “There’s so much to be done, and no one to do it except me.”
“I should think a sturdy boy would be a help to you here,” remarked Mr. Hatfield. “And an outdoor life might be just what Jack needs. With a woods and marsh nearby, he could interest himself in wild life which he seems to enjoy.”
“That’s what Mr. Wentworth thought,” nodded the widow. “He said several city boarding places have been tried, and each time Jack runs away.”
“The boy needs strict discipline but from someone who has an interest in his welfare.”
“I’ve always liked boys—even so-called bad ones,” Mrs. Jones declared. “Jack would have good food here and a comfortable bed. The house isn’t much, but after all, it’s what’s in it that counts.”
The widow, who wore no wrap, was shivering from cold. Aware that they were keeping her, the Cubs started away.
But as they started off, Mr. Hatfield thought to speak of the tramp who had been seen at the group of new houses.
“Since you live here alone, it might be well to lock your doors at night,” the Cub leader advised. “While the fellow probably is harmless, one never knows.”
Mrs. Jones thanked him for the warning. “I’ll do as you advise,” she said, “but I’ve never been afraid. It’s not in my blood to be afeared of anyone or anything.”