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Rh "Then you won't make any explanation?"

"No. Now go!"

For the moment Franklin hesitated, then, as he saw the superintendent turn to a couple of brawny workmen with the evident intention of having him ejected by force, he threw down his tools, picked up his hat and coat, and started for the office.

Evidently the bookkeeper had been expecting something of the sort, for he handed over the money due Franklin without a word. As he placed the amount, which was but a few dollars, in his pocket, Franklin turned his clear eyes full upon the man behind the desk.

"Mr. Parker, will you tell me why I am discharged?" he asked.

"Well, I guess you know well enough. Bell," returned the bookkeeper, sharply. "Mr. Buckman don't take to your monkey shines."

"And what sort of monkey shines am I accused of?"

"Didn't you smear a lot of liquid glue over that new polishing machine and over Felter's workbench?"

"I certainly did not!"

"Well, they say you did. I don't know anything about it."

"Who says I did?"

"I don't know. Mr. Buckman found it out through some of the young fellows, I think.