Page:The Young Auctioneers.djvu/250

234 the turn-out, and he unhitched Billy from the tree to which he had been tied.

"No, they are afraid we are going after the police," returned Matt, springing up to the seat. "Every one of that crowd ought to be in jail this minute!" he went on bitterly.

"What did they do to you?"

"Nearly robbed me!" And in a few brief words he related what had happened to him.

"Well, do you want to go back to Easton and make a complaint?" asked Andy, when he had finished.

"No, I am sick of having to do with the police, Andy. All I want is to be let alone."

"That's my sentiment, Matt, We are out for business—and money—not trouble."

Andy sprang up beside Matt, and it was soon decided by the partners to continue on the road until another house should appear. They looked back, but saw nothing more of the negroes, and then started off.

They passed through a bit of woods and down a long hill. Here they found a neat farmhouse, where a pleasant enough woman was sitting upon the doorstep, knitting socks.

"This is one road, but it is not the best road," replied the woman, in reply to Andy's question