"What if I refuse to go back?"
The sheriff looked pained.
"Oh, you won't do that—what's the use?"
"Do you mean—" began North savagely, but Conklin interposed.
"Never mind what I mean, that's a good fellow; say you'll take the next train back with me; it will save a lot of, bother!"
"But I strongly object to return to Mount Hope!" said North.
"Be reasonable—" urged the sheriff.
"This is an infernal outrage!" cried North.
"I'm sorry, John, but make it easy for me, make it easy for yourself; we'll have a nice friendly trip and you will be back here by the first of the week."
For a moment North hesitated. He had so many excellent reasons why he did not wish to return to Mount Hope, but he knew that there was something back of Mr. Conklin's mild eye and yet milder speech.