“He’s only bluffing,” jeered Tommy. “That’s my place, William; step down!”
“Come an’ take it, Mr. First-aid-to-the-injured,” challenged Willie, doubling his fists.
“Stop jawing!” commanded Bob, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “Do you really wish to go, Willie?”
“If I don’t, nobody else shall,” said Mr. Beaumont’s ward, with emphasis, as he stared angrily at the grinning faces around. “Afraid, am I? We’ll see, bean-stalk—bean——”
“Cut it out!” commanded Bob.
“I can wallop anybody who says that I’m afraid,” screeched Willie.
“Ha, ha!” It was Cranny’s roar again. “Who’d ever have believed it? The little chap is actually beginning to show some signs of spunk at last!”
“Now, Willie, do you still wish to go?” asked Bob.
“Yes.”
“Then let me fasten this strap about you.”