With Oscar, the case was different, and he did not see exactly how his truancy was to be concealed from his parents and teachers.

But as Alfred was going with the boys, he finally concluded that he, too, would run the risk for at least half a day, and trust to luck to escape punishment.
It was decided to go over to the neighboring city of Charlestown, first, and visit the Monument and Navy-Yard, both of which the young strangers were quite anxious to see.

Joseph, the oldest and most forward, began to be on quite intimate terms with Oscar and Alfred.

He threw off every restraint, and laughed and talked with them just as if they were old acquaintances.

One thing very noticeable about him, was his profanity.