"I haven't any jobs, for you. I've got a yellow chap, Pete Lippitts, who takes the guests out shooting. You'll have to try farther."
"I'm much obliged to you," said Arnold very quietly. He took up his hat, and somehow he and Terry found themselves outside.
A merry party were playing tennis. Smartly dressed people lounged on the shady veranda. The sun shone brightly, and the two poor lads, with hearts heavy as lead, made their way through the beautiful gardens to the outer gate.
"How are we going to get back?" asked Terry. "Sixty cents won't take us far."
"Walk, I reckon," said Arnold grimly.
"Hi, mister. Say, come back. The boss wants you."
Both the youngsters wheeled round. A big mulatto was running after them.
"Look here," said Crundall. "Peter tells me the big 'gator I've got in the pond has bust the netting and crawled out and gone. If you chaps are game to catch him or another, I'll make it worth your while."
Arnold and Terry exchanged glances. "What's it worth?" demanded Arnold.
"Fifty dollars," said Crundall. "That is for one not less'n six foot long. I don't want any toys."