The landing window had been too small, and Mr. Blank too big, though
William did his best.
There came to the astounded listeners the sound of a fierce scuffle,
then Robert descended, his hair rumpled and his tie awry, holding
William by the arm. William looked pale and apprehensive. "He was
there," panted Robert, "just getting out of the window. He chucked the
things out of his pockets and got away. I couldn't stop him. And--and
William was there----"
William's face assumed the expression of one who is prepared for the
worst.
"The plucky little chap! Struggling with him! Trying to pull him back
from the window! All by himself!"
"I _wasn't_," cried William excitedly. "I was _helping_ him. He's _my
friend_. I----"
But they heard not a word. They crowded round him, praised him, shook
hands with him, asked if he was hurt. Mrs. de Vere Carter kept up one
perpetual scream of delight and congratulation.
"The _dear_ boy! The little _pet_! How _brave_! What _courage_! What
an _example_ to us all! And the horrid, wretched man! Posing as a
_hero_. Wangling himself into the sweet child's confidence. Are you
hurt, my precious? Did the nasty man hurt you? You _darling_ boy!"
When the babel had somewhat subsided, Mr. Brown came forward and laid
a hand on William's shoulder.
"I'm very pleased with you, my boy," he said. "You can buy anything
you like to-morrow up to five shillings."
William's bewildered countenance cleared.
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