"Well, we will let it go at that. You seem to be in a great hurry, Micky."
"So do you, sir."
"Humph!" said Moore. "I perceive you are blessed with an observing mind. Have you observed the whereabouts of a trout brook that is located somewhere in this neighborhood?"
"Yis," replied Micky, himself an enthusiastic fisherman. "I have that. Don't ye know the place, Mr. Moore?"
"Not I, my lad, but, since Providence has sent you along to show me the way, I 'll speedily be possessed of that knowledge."
Micky looked doubtfully in the direction of the schoolhouse. It was almost time for the afternoon session, but the day was too beautiful to be spent in the dull depths of the school without regret.
"I 'd show you the way, sir, gladly, but it 'll make me late."
"Are you afraid of Mistress Dyke?" queried Moore, noticing the boy's hesitation.
"Yis, sir."
"So am I, my lad."