Page:Ned Wilding's Disappearance.djvu/184

174 "Say, young feller, that's too thin. It don't go here any more. I've been stung too often with that yarn. You'll pay for your grub or you'll be arrested, see? Have you got the money; yes or no?"

"I haven't—but if—"

"Yes, if we let you go you'll stop in on your way from the bank and give us a check! No you don't! A fellow gave me that song and dance last week. Jim, call the cop," and the cashier nodded to one of the men waiters.

"Are you going to have me arrested?" exclaimed Ned.

"That's what I am. It's a criminal offense to order a meal, eat it, and not pay for it."

Ned did not know what to do.