“I think it could be arranged, Jack. If you’ll give your word to make an honest effort to get along with Mrs. Jones, I’ll talk to Guy Wentworth in your behalf. How about it?”
Jack did not answer for a long moment. “Maybe I will,” he said reluctantly. “I don’t know—it’s a lot to promise.”
“And a promise always should be kept,” Mr. Hatfield stressed. “That’s the way it is with the Cubs. Once given, a promise never may be broken.”
“Well, I’m not a Cub,” Jack said defiantly. “I’m not anything.”
“You could be a Cub, Jack. You could be anything you set your mind to, for you’re a smart youngster with courage and determination. Well, what do you say?”
“What do I have to promise?”
“To go out to Widow Jones’ place if the court elects to return you there. Just promise to do your best, and treat her squarely. The same way she’ll treat you.”
“Okay, I’ll give it a try,” Jack agreed. “You got me in a tight spot.”
“No, Jack,” Mr. Hatfield corrected. “You’ve been in a tight spot for many years. I don’t want you to feel that you’re being pressured into anything. This decision must be your own.”
“I gave my promise, didn’t I?” Jack growled, squirming uncomfortably.