The official’s eyes ran over the contents.
“All it seems to show is that the boy’s guardian knows he is with you,” he said, slowly. “But, still, I hardly think that I have any authority to take him from under your care and protection.”
The expression on Joe Rodgers’ face, which a moment before had been so full of hope, changed to one of blank despair.
“Have you been ill-treated, Joe?” asked the magistrate, in kindly tones.
“No, sir; I ain’t.”
“What’s your complaint, then?”
“If I stays with ’im I won’t never have no chanc’t to git an eddication, an’——”
“That is a pity. But it is not enough to justify me in taking any action. Perhaps you may be able to make some arrangement with Mr. Whiffin so that you can go to school in the winter.”
“Your Honor, I have a word to say about this case.”
A strong, clear voice attracted the attention of every one in the court room. They saw a tall, commanding-looking man step before the rail; and they also saw the magistrate stare at him with an air of bewilderment.