"I wouldn't have injured George Leman for anything," added Harry. "He's a good fellow, and never did me any harm."
"He said, when he found his horse, he was so glad he wouldn't have chased you any farther for all the world. He told father what Mr. Nason said about you--that you were a good boy, had good feelings, and were willing to work. He didn't blame you for not wanting to go to Jacob Wire's--wasn't that the man?"
"And he didn't blame you for running away. Nobody believes that you set the barn afire; and, Harry, they have caught the other boy--Ben Smart, wasn't it?"
"They caught him in the woods, over the other side of the river."
"Did you find out whether the dog was killed?" asked Harry.
"Mr. Leman said he thought he would get over it; and he has got his boat again."
"I am glad of that; and if anybody ever catches me with such a fellow as Ben Smart again, they'll know it."
"You can't think how I wanted to tell father where you were, when he spoke so well of you. He even said he hoped you would get off, and that you must be in the woods around here somewhere. You will let me tell him now--won't you, Harry?"
"He may hope I will get off, and still not be willing to help me off."
Julia looked very much disappointed; for she had depended upon surprising her father with the story of the snake, and the little fugitive in the woods.
"He will be very good to you," pleaded she.
"I dare say he would; but he may think it his duty to send me back to Redfield; and Squire Walker would certainly make me go to Jacob Wire's."
"I'm afraid you will never get to Boston."
"O, yes, I shall. I don't think it is safe for me to stay here much longer."
"Why not? Hardly any one ever goes through the woods here at this time of year but myself."
"Didn't your mother want to know what you were going to do with the dinner you brought me?"
"No, I went to the store room, and got it. She didn't see me; but I don't like to do anything unknown to her."
"You have brought enough to last me while I stop here. To-morrow morning I must start; so I suppose I shall not see you again. But I shall never forget you," said Harry looking as sad as he felt.
"No, you mustn't go off without any breakfast. Promise me you will not go till I have brought you some."