Page 138 - In A New World

No sooner said than done. The nugget was taken from the enfolding
bandanna, and dropped into the trunk, which Obed placed at the head of his

pallet.

"I wish there was a lock and key," he said. "I should somehow feel safer."

"It's no use wishing," said Harry. "We've got to take things as we find

them."

"That's true philosophy, boy. Now get the rock, and tie it up."

Harry did so.

"Where shall I put it?" he asked.

"Anywhere where it can be seen easily. We won't trouble the thief to look
round much. We'll make everything easy for him."

When the transfer was effected, the boys laughed with glee.

"Do you know, Obed," said Harry. "I shall be rather disappointed now if
the thief doesn't come."

"I can get along without him," said Obed dryly.

"But it'll be such a good joke, Obed."

"I don't care so much about jokes as I did when I was your age, Harry. I
used to be a great feller for jokes when I was along in my teens. Did I ever

tell you the joke I played on the schoolmaster?

"Well, I was attendin' the district school the winter I was sixteen, and I

expect I was rather troublesome, though there wasn't anything downright
bad about me. But I remember one day when I stuck a bent pin in the chair

the master usually sot in, and I shan't forget till my dyin' day how quick he
riz up when he sot down on it."