Brown appeared, driving his
carrier's van, for he was just starting again for the homeward journey.
His emphatic testimony settled what nobody doubted, and the officer
prepared to take the showman to the lock-up.
But Dick's only desire was to get away as soon as possible on his
delayed journey, and he begged that nothing more might be said about
prosecution.
So the showman was allowed to go, scowling and muttering, and the crowd
jeered as he went, though more than one present would have been willing
to risk stealing and its penalties for the possession of Pat.
"Best get away at once, and don't let him out of your sight again,"
said the man in blue, kindly. "That dog's too fetching to be on the
road with such a small owner."
"Better both jump up into the van and go back with me to Turningham,"
said carrier Brown. "I want a boy to help with the horse and do odd
jobs about the shop, and I know the missus would take to you and the
dog. You've been a brave boy and a smart one to-day. Eighteen-pence a
week and your keep to begin. Come, now!"
But Dick shook his head.
"I'm ever so much obliged, sir, but I must go on to Ironboro', whatever
happens."
"Well, then, take my advice and train it as far as your money will go.
A ticket for thirty or forty miles will get you beyond the beat of
these fair folks, and be cheaper than tramping in the end.
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