Charlie was a youngster about four years of age, and very fond of Luke, who was a favorite with most young children.

“Yes, that will do.  Charlie, go into the shed and see Luke saw wood.”

“Yes, mama.”

“Don’t let him run away.”

“No, I won’t,” said Charlie, gravely.

Luke felt happier when he was fairly at work.  It took his mind off his troubles, as work generally does, and he spent a couple of hours in the shed.  Then Mrs. Perkins came to the door and called him.

“Luke,” she said, “a young lady has called to see the prisoner.”

“A young lady!  Who is it?”

“Florence Grant.”

Luke’s face brightened up with pleasure; he put on his coat and went into the house.

“Oh, Luke, what a shame!” exclaimed Florence, hastening to him with extended hand.  “I only just heard of it.”

“Then you’re not afraid to shake hands with a bank burglar?” said Luke.

“No, indeed!  What nonsense it is!  Who do you think told me of your arrest?”

“Randolph Duncan.”

“You have guessed it.”

“What did he say?  Did he seem to be shocked at my iniquity?”

“I think he seemed glad of it.  Of course, he believes you guilty.”

“I supposed he would, or pretend to, at any rate.  I think his father is interested to make me out guilty.  I hope you don’t think there is any chance of it?”

“Of course not, Luke.  I know you too well.  I’d sooner suspect Randolph.  He wanted to know what I thought of you now.”

“And what did you answer?”

“That I thought the same as I always had—­that you were one of the best boys in the village.  ‘I admire your taste,’ said Randolph, with a sneer.  Then I gave him a piece of my mind.”

“I should like to have heard you, Florence.”

“I don’t know; you have no idea what a virago I am when I am mad.  Now sit down and tell me all about it.”

Luke obeyed, and the conversation was a long one, and seemed interesting to both.  In the midst of it Linton Tomkins came in.

“Have you come to see the prisoner, also, Linton?” asked Florence.

“Yes, Florence.  What a desperate-looking ruffian he is!  I don’t dare to come too near.  How did you break into the bank, Luke?”

First Luke smiled, then he became grave.  “After all, it is no joke to me, Linny,” he said.  “Think of the disgrace of being arrested on such a charge.”

“The disgrace is in being a burglar, not in being arrested for one, Luke.  Of course, it’s absurd.  Father wants me to say that if you are bound over for trial he will go bail for you to any amount.”

“Your father is very kind, Linny.  I may need to avail myself of his kindness.”

The next day came, and at ten o’clock, Luke, accompanied by Constable Perkins, entered the room in which Squire Duncan sat as trial justice.  A considerable number of persons were gathered, for it was a trial in which the whole village was interested.  Among them was Mrs. Larkin, who wore an anxious, perturbed look.