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THE PURPLE PENNANT

with the trial. Now that I've started, I'd really like to convince you that I'm a respectable member of society."

"We believe it already," replied Perry, with a grin.

"Sure," agreed Fudge. But his tone held deep disappointment, and Mr. Addicks, noting it, laughed.

"Shaw, you almost make me wish I really was a train-robber or something desperate!" he said. "I suppose you'll never take any more interest in me after this."

Fudge smiled, a trifle embarrassed.

"And," continued Mr. Addicks, "I can't much blame you. That reward sounded pretty good, I'll warrant!"

"R-r-reward!" blurted Fudge. "Gee, you don't suppose we were looking for that reward when we came here and warned you s-s-s-so you could get away!"

"That's true, Shaw. I beg your pardon. You acted like a good pal there, and I thank you. You too, Hull. You both of you acted white. By the way, is everything quite cleared up? Any little things you'd like explained?"

"N-no, sir, I guess not," replied Fudge. "Still, about that policeman——"

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