Abashed, the manager of the investment company slunk back in his seat and Mr. Plum conferred for a few moments in whispers with the judge and the prosecutor. The upshot of it was that Tom hurried off in the electric runabout and brought his father to the court house. Mr. Swift and Tom signed the bail bond, pledging themselves to pay to the county the sum of ten thousand dollars in the event that Mr. Newton was not on hand to stand trial when called; and the matter was ended for the time being.
“May I go now?” asked Ned’s father, who was in a very nervous state over it all.
“You may, indeed,” said the judge courteously. “Your friends have gone bail for you.”
“I—I thank you—very much,” faltered Mr. Newton, and then he and Ned walked out a little ahead of the others, for Ned was affected, too.
However, they soon recovered their spirits, and when they were in the runabout, which was larger than the name implies, Mr. Newton with a sad smile, turned to Tom and asked:
“How does it seem to associate with criminals?”
“I don’t know!” laughed the young inventor. “I haven’t been with any yet.”
“Thanks!” replied Ned’s father. “I suppose I needn’t assure you, my friends, that I am innocent of this charge?” he added.
“You don’t need to say a word!” cried Tom.
“But what is it all about, Dad?” asked Ned. “What’s the game, anyhow, and why have they picked you for the goat?”