"Who is it this time, William? Tell us about it, old fellow! Of course
we're bound to stand by you through thick and thin. That's one of the
first duties of a scout, you know. Speak up, and give us a tip!"

It was Jud Elderkin who said this; but that he voiced the sentiments
of pretty much the entire group could be judged from the chorus of
exclamations that greeted his aggressive speech.

"It's that old grumpy miser, Peleg Growdy," said the orator, waving his
hands to emphasize his words. "He never had any use for boys, you know,
and often says he wonders why the pests were ever born. I don't remember
doing him any mean thing in my life, but he's got it in for the whole
creation of boys, I expect."

"What did he do to you?"

"Yes, tell us, William. We'll stand by you, never fear."

"He needs a good lesson, the old skinflint. Tell us what happened!"

William grinned, for he saw that he had already captured the hearts
of his comrades, and had small need to fear they would let him seek
satisfaction alone.

Jack Stormways was as deeply interested in the outcome as his chum Paul.

He remembered all his father had said at the breakfast table on the
preceding day, in connection with this same man Growdy.