Ben considered whether he should tell Bradley what had happened
during the night. He decided briefly to say a few words about it in
a whisper, and postpone a full explanation till later, for their
hostess was below, and could hear any loud word that might be
uttered. Bradley was instructed that he must claim to have lost five
dollars.
"But I had a hundred," said Bradley, feeling in his pockets.
"It's all right," whispered Ben. "I'll explain by and by. Not a word
of the loss till after breakfast."
Bradley was quite bewildered, and utterly failed to understand the
situation. But he had considerable faith in his young companion, and
was willing to follow Ben's instructions. They descended the ladder,
Ben in advance.
The woman looked at them sharply, to see if they had yet discovered
the robbery, but each seemed unconcerned.
"They don't know it yet," she said to herself.
"Madam, can you give us some breakfast?" asked Ben politely.
"I'll give you such as I have," said Mrs. Carter, feeling a little
remorse for her husband's theft, and pity for what she supposed
their penniless condition.
"That will be perfectly satisfactory, and we shall be much obliged
to you.
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