“Is that about right for the performance?” he said “is that about right?”
“Ja, mein Herr,” said the man, nodding vociferously.
“I want to pay what's right—I want to pay what's right,” said Jethro.
“I thank you very much, sir,” said the leader, finding his English, “you haf pay for all.”
“P-paid for everything—everything to-night?” demanded Jethro.
The leader spread out his hands.
“You haf pay for one whole evening,” said he, and bowed again.
“Then take it, take it,” said Jethro, pushing the bill into the man's palm; “but don't you come back to-night—don't you come back to-night.”
The amazed leader stared at Jethro—and words failed him. There was something about this man that compelled him to obey, and he gathered up his followers and led the way silently out of the hotel. Roars of laughter and applause arose on all sides; but Jethro was as one who heard them not as he made his way back to his seat again.
“You did a good job, my friend,” said Mr. Beard, approvingly. “I'm going to take Eph Prescott down the street to see some of the boys. Won't you come, too?”