"Why didn't you tell me about it?" demanded Noddy, with becoming indignation.
"Because I decided that I wouldn't say a word about it to any person," answered Ben.
"How did it happen?"
"I haven't anything to say about it; so you mustn't ask me any questions."
"Don't you know how it caught afire?" persisted Noddy.
"I've nothing to say on that subject."
Noddy was vexed and disheartened; but he felt that it would not be prudent to deny the charge of setting it on fire before he was accused, for that would certainly convict him. The old man was playing a deep game, and that annoyed him still more.
"So you won't say anything about it, Ben?" added he, seating himself on the pier.
"Not a word, Noddy."
"Well, I wouldn't if I were you," continued Noddy, lightly.