Page 110 - In A New World

"I agree with you. According to my idea, we may as well leave him where
he lies."

"But won't he starve?"

"He can get his hands free after awhile," said Obed, "but not till after we
are at a safe distance. You needn't be afraid about him. Anyhow the world

wouldn't lose much if he did take passage for another."

"That's so, Obed, but I wouldn't like to feel that we were responsible for his
death."

At this moment the prostrate man opened his eyes, and as his glance lighted
on Obed, they gleamed with the old look of rage. He tried to get up, and of

course discovered that his hands were tied.

"Loosen my hands, you scoundrel!" he exclaimed.

"If you mean me by that pet name, my esteemed friend," said Obed, "I

respectfully decline. I'd rather look at you with your hands tied."

"Do you want me to kill you?" demanded the tramp furiously.

"Not at present! when I do I'll let you know. Come, boys, we may as well

be going. This gentleman would rather be left alone."

"Unloose me first, and I won't harm you," said the other, trying to struggle

to his feet.

"I don't mean you shall. Good-by, my friend. I can't say I wish to meet you
again. I will take the liberty to carry off your stick, as you won't need it
with your hands tied."

Obed and the boys started off, followed by the most fearful execrations

from their late acquaintance. They had scarcely gone a quarter of a mile
when they met two mounted police, who halted their horses and inquired: