"Look here, young fellow! Have you got any money?" asked the tramp with a sidelong glance.
Robert was not surprised at this inquiry, for he had expected it, but in spite of his courage it alarmed him, for he could see that he was no match in physical strength for this ill-looking man.
"A little!" he answered.
"How much?"
"That's my business," answered Robert, provoked. "I don't ask how much money you've got."
"I haven't a cent," said the tramp, "but," he added, significantly, "I'm going to have some soon."
The look which accompanied this declaration made it evident what he meant, and Robert looked about to see what chance he had of escape if the worst came to the worst. As to surrendering the $20 for which he had been indebted to the generosity of Miss Stratton, he had no intention of doing it, unless it should be absolutely necessary.
"I have nothing to do with your affairs," said Robert. "If you'll let me know which way you are going, I'll go the other way."
"Will you so? No, boy, you don't get rid of me so easily. We're goin' the same way. If you want to leave you can, but you must hand over your money first."