Then a splendid idea struck me.

I offered the boy a dollar to let me take his place: I knew that any sensible man would rather have me in charge of his tent, than a young codger like that.

The boy agreed as quick as lightning, and I paid him and sent him off.

You see how little he was to be trusted! The owner of this tent will be under the greatest obligations to me.

Just look at it!" he cried.