The sheriff had spoken of tar and feathers--very quietly he stood erect and picked up the stool.
"Heaven helping me, I'll brain a citizen or two before it comes to that!" he told himself.
The cautious steps continued to approach.

Some one paused below the closely shuttered window, and a hand struck the boards sharply.

A whisper stole into the jail.
"Are you awake, Price ?" It was Mahaffy who spoke.
"God bless you, Solomon Mahaffy!" cried the judge unsteadily.
"I've got the boy--he's with me," said Mahaffy.
"God bless you both!" repeated the judge brokenly.

"Take care of him, Solomon.

I feel better now, knowing he's in good hands." "Please, Judge--" it was Hannibal "Yes, dear lad ?" "I'm mighty sorry that ten dollars I loaned you was bad--but you don't need ever to pay it back!" Mahaffy gave way to mirth.
"Never mind!" said the judge indulgently.