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NOVEMBER JOE

November was received hilariously, and some witticisms were indulged in at his expense; but they soon died a natural death, and the boots were produced.

The men who had been robbed and their comrades closed round as November examined them.

"Seventeen in one heel and fifteen in the other—cowhide boots," said Chris, "that's what he that robbed us wore, and I'll swear to that."

"I could swear to it, too," agreed November.

"Take them and the sleeping-stuff," pursued Chris; "it's a silver fox skin to a red on a conviction, eh, November?"

"Have you sent for the police?"

"Not yet. We'd waited till you come up. We'll send now."

"The sooner the better," said November. "And whoever goes'll find four chaps from Camp B in the hut by Tideson's Bridge. They 've orders to knock it down and take the roof off and carry the stove into D."

I listened to November making this astonishing statement, and hoped I showed no surprise.

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