“Very likely; and the movement which these boys represent,” Mr. Ellsworth added with a suggestion of pride in his voice, “is growing quite as fast as any man’s wealth.”
“Indeed, sir! Do you know that this boy’s father owes me money?” said Mr. Temple, coldly indicating Tom.
“Very likely.”
“And that the boy is a hoodlum?”
Mr. Ellsworth bit his lip, hesitatingly. “Yes, I know that, Mr. Temple,” he said.
“And a thief and a liar?”
“Don’t run, Tom,” whispered Roy.
“No, I don’t know that. Suppose we talk apart, Mr. Temple.”
“We will talk right here, and there’ll be very little talking indeed. If you think I am a public target, sir, you are quite mistaken! You clear out of this lot and keep out of it, or you’ll go to jail—the whole pack of you! A man is known by the company he keeps. If you choose to cast your lot with children—and hoodlums and rowdies—I could send that boy to jail if I wanted to,” he broke off. “You know he’s a vicious character and yet you—”
