"Leave me alone," the fellow howled. "Aren't you a coward to hit me
when I can't get at you!"

"You were not troubled about being a coward when you tried to terrorize
three girls and got pretty badly left," Mr. Brown answered coolly,
giving the youth another cut.

The bully groaned. The girls could not endure it. If the lad had
taken his medicine like a man they might have borne the sight of his
punishment. But there is nothing more sickening than the fear of a
coward.

"Please stop now, Mr. Brown," entreated Lillian. "I am sure you have
punished the boy enough. Make him give up the money he has stolen, but
don't beat him any more."

"No, please, don't beat him any more," echoed Eleanor.

Phil could have endured to see the thrashing continue a little longer.
But she did not wish to appear hard-hearted.

"Just as you like," answered Mr. Brown. "I am enjoying myself, but I
will quit if you say so. Don't you think I had better turn him over to
the police?"

"No," Phil protested. "He won't trouble us again, now he knows we can
look after ourselves. Next time he wouldn't get off so easily."

The youth vowed never to come within the range of the houseboat if he