[“Whats that?” asked Perry, startled.] With a swift leap Mr. Addicks reached the gaslight and turned it out. In the darkness they listened with straining ears. No sound reached them, however, beyond the usual noises from the street. “I thought,” muttered Perry apologetically, “I heard something.”
[“‘What’s that?’ asked Perry, startled”]
“I g-g-guess,” said Fudge, as Mr. Addicks lighted the gas again, “I g-g-guess we’d better go.”
“Yes,” whispered Mr. Addicks, “don’t run any risks. Good-by, boys. Take care of yourselves and, whatever you do, remain honest.” He shook hands with Fudge and then with Perry. “Remember that honesty is the best policy and take it from me that there’s nothing in train robbery. A fellow hasn’t got a fair chance nowadays.”
“Couldn’t you—if they don’t get you this time, sir, couldn’t you—” Perry faltered embarrassedly—“couldn’t you reform, sir?”
“I’ll try, Hull, I swear to you I’ll try.” Mr. Addicks seemed quite affected and, after the door had closed behind them, they thought they heard a sob. They stole noiselessly down the stairs. On the sidewalk Fudge drew a deep breath of relief as he glanced left and right and saw no policeman.
“Gee, I hope he gets away,” he whispered huskily.
Perry nodded. “So do I. He—he’s a mighty nice fellow. What do you say if we stay around until he goes, Fudge? I’d like to be sure he gets away, wouldn’t you?”