Part 25 (1/2)
”If I'd been going into that business, I would have tried it when I was poor and ragged. I should not have waited till now.”
”If you didn't take the pocket-book, then how came it in your pocket?”
”I was looking in at a shop window, when I felt it thrust into my pocket. I suppose it was the thief who did it, to get out of the sc.r.a.pe himself.”
”That might be. At any rate, I've known of such cases. If so, you are unlucky, and I am sorry for you. I can't let you go, because appearances are against you, but if there is anything I can do to help you I will.”
”Thank you, Mr. Jones,” said d.i.c.k, gratefully. ”I did not want you to think me guilty. Where is the man that lost the pocket-book?”
”Just behind us.”
”I should like to speak to him a moment.”
The red-faced man, who was a little behind, came up, and d.i.c.k asked, quietly, ”What makes you think I took your pocket-book, sir?”
”Wasn't it found in your pocket, you young rascal?” said the other, irritably.
”Yes,” said d.i.c.k.
”And isn't that enough?”
”Not if somebody else put it there,” said d.i.c.k.
”That's a likely story.”
”It's a true story.”
”Can you identify this as the boy who robbed you, and whom you saw running?”
”No,” said the red-faced man, rather unwillingly. ”My eyesight is not very good, but I've no doubt this is the young rascal.”
”Well, that must be decided. You must appear to-morrow morning to prefer your complaint.”
”Mind you don't let the rascal escape,” said the other.
”I shall carry him to the station-house, where he will be safe.”
”That's right, I'll make an example of him. He won't pick my pocket again in a hurry.”
”I hope the judge won't be so sure that I am guilty,” said d.i.c.k. ”If he is, it'll go hard with me.”
”Why don't you call your employer to testify to your good character?”
”That's a good idea. Can I write a note to him, and to another friend?”
”Yes; but perhaps the mail wouldn't carry them in time.”
”I will send a messenger. Can I do so?”
”When we get to the station-house I will see that you have a chance to send. Here we are.”
Escorted by the officer, and followed by his accuser, d.i.c.k entered.