Brace up, and let's have it,' he began, with an abruptness which roused Dan from a brown study most effectually.
'No, I don't forget; it isn't interesting to anyone but myself.

I didn't see any farms--gave it up,' he said slowly.
'Why ?' 'Other things to do.' 'What ?' 'Well, brush-making for one thing.' 'Don't chaff a fellow.

Tell true.' 'I truly did.' 'What for ?' 'To keep out of mischief, as much as anything.' 'Well, of all the queer things--and you've done a lot--that's the queerest,' cried Ted, taken aback at this disappointing discovery.

But he didn't mean to give up yet, and began again.
'What mischief, Dan ?' 'Never you mind.

Boys shouldn't bother.' 'But I do want to know, awfully, because I'm your pal, and care for you no end.