There's only one way out of it. I can hire you
under another name and you can travel with us till we get out of this
part of the country. Five hundred is the reward. If I get it from you,
most of it can be paid back in wages. If I turn you over to them and
take their coin, I'd be doing the best thing for myself, but I'm
willing to run the risk of--"
"Thomas Braddock, you are _not_ to take this boy's money," cried his
wife. "It would be infamous!"
"Now, you keep out of this," he growled, fearful for his plans. "It's
one or the other, Mary. Either he antes up or they do."
"I will not allow it!"
David broke in, with a rare show of dignity. "I said I would pay it,
Mrs. Braddock. I can't break my word. If Mr. Braddock will send them
away, I will pay the amount they offer."
"Give him the envelope, Mary," commanded Braddock.
She looked about her as if seeking means of escape with the precious
package. Then, with a deep sigh, and a look of unutterable scorn for
the man, she handed the envelope to David.
He broke the seal.
"Maybe it's Confederate money," said Braddock, a sudden chill in his
heart.
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