“‘But the tiger’s ate ’im,’ says Mrs. Reddish, explaining.
“‘I know that,’ ses Sam, sharply. ‘But ’e was our wild man, and we want to be paid for ’im. You should ha’ been more careful. We’ll give you five minutes; and if the money ain’t paid by that time we’ll go straight off to the police-station.’
“‘Well, go,’ ses Ted Reddish.
“Sam got up, very stern, and looked at Ginger.
“‘You’ll be ruined if we do,’ ses Ginger.
“‘All right,’ ses Ted Reddish, comfortably.
“I’m not sure they can’t ’ang you,’ ses Russet.
“‘I ain’t sure either,’ says Reddish; ‘and I’d like to know ‘ow the law stands, in case it ’appens agin.’
“‘Come on, Sam,’ ses Ginger; ‘come straight to the police-station.’
“He got up, and moved towards the door. Ted Reddish didn’t move a muscle, but Mrs. Reddish flopped on her knees and caught old Sam round the legs, and ’eld him so’s ’e couldn’t move.