Page 108 - In A New World

"That settles you, my friend, I guess," said Obed. "You brought it upon
yourself, and you've got no one else to blame. Watch him, Harry, to see that

he doesn't come to himself, while I tie his hands."

Obed whipped a strong cord from his pockets, and secured the wrists of the
prostrate enemy, tying them securely together.

"Will you tie his feet, too?" asked Jack.

"No, it is not necessary. He can't do any harm now. I came in the nick of
time, boys, didn't I?"

"Indeed you did!" said Harry earnestly. "He was beginning to choke me."

"What was it all about?"

"We had given him a meal, but he wanted to make off with the basket

besides. As this would have left us utterly without food, I objected."

"The mean skunk! I'm glad I came up in time to settle him."

"Won't you have something to eat yourself, Mr. Stackpole?" asked Harry,

bethinking himself that his deliverer might need refreshment.

"I don't mind if I do," answered Obed. "The fact is, I'm feeling kinder
hollow. I feel a gnawin' at my vitals that isn't pleasant. This is prime fodder;
where did you raise it?"

While Obed was eating--with hearty relish, it may be added--Harry related

briefly what had befallen Jack and himself since they had parted company.

"You're in luck, boys," was Obed's comment. "You fared better than I, for

you've had your square meals, while I've had only one besides this."

"Where was that?" asked Harry.