Arthur M. Winfield

“ At the mention of jewelry and money the tramps' eyes glistened.
"If you are tellin' de truth, dis is all right," cried Stumpy Nuggs, as he arose and stretched himself.
"I am telling the truth, and you can easily prove it for yourselves. Only hurry up, or it will be too late."
The two tramps consulted together, and asked a few more questions. Then they agreed to follow Baxter, and do whatever he desired of them, providing they were allowed their fair share of plunder, if there was any.
In the meantime Tom went on in deep thought. He still held the stone in his hand. ”

“ He remained as motionless as a statue while Tom passed within a dozen feet of him. Then When Tom went out on the road again Baxter ran forth, too, but in the opposite direction.
Down on a side road Baxter had that day run across a tramps' encampment. In the camp were three hoboes, as they are sometimes called rascals who were willing to do almost anything but work for a living.
They had demanded money of the bully, and he gave them a dollar, fearing violence if he refused them. ”

“ He turned to the other tramp. "Longback, I reckon we have struck an odd crowd, hey?"
"Dat's wot," answered Longback. "But say, we didn't go through de young gent's pockets yet."
"Wait until we are off the road," interrupted Dan Baxter. "Somebody may come along and make trouble for us."
"Right ye are," answered Stumpy Nuggs. "Don't let's stay here anudder minit."
With Baxter on one side of him, Nuggs on the other, and Longback bringing up the rear, Tom was forced to march along. ”

“ We can easily catch him before he gets to the academy, if you hurry up."
"An' you will give us five dollars each?"
"Yes—and perhaps more. The boy carries a watch, and must have some money in his pocket. He also wears a gold ring." ”