"But I don't want you to read it, it's not for you," said Billy.
"I'm not particular about that. I could probably find something in it that would amuse me." And Mumbledy Peg held out his hand for the note, just as if everything had been settled.
"No, I'd rather take it myself," said Billy.
"Oh! all right, if you're going to be selfish with your old note, go ahead. But I warn you that you have lost your chance forever to have the note read, for if you should come to me now and beg me on bended knee to read that note, I should refuse. That's the kind of a man I am."
"Don't worry," said Billy, "I shan't ask you."
"That won't help you any, for I won't read it even if you don't ask me." And in high dudgeon Mumbledy Peg started to stump off down the street.
"Hold on," called Billy, running after him.
"I have nothing to hold on to, but don't worry, I won't fall."
"Can't you give a sensible answer to anything?"