Paul and his chum managed to break away finally, and walk toward the home
of the latter. Jack had his arm through that of the other, and it seemed
as though he felt happier over the recent exploit than the one who had
occupied the centre of the stage.

"My heart seemed to be up in my mouth just when you made that grab for
the bit. I believe I would have fallen in a fit if you had gone under,
Paul," said Jack, with a big sigh, as he pressed the arm he held.

"Well, I was a little worried myself that something might upset me just
then. But luck favored me, you know. I'm more than glad, because it would
have given my mother a bad shock if I'd been trampled on. But please drop
that subject, old fellow," said Paul, making a wry face.

"I will, since you ask it; but they won't forget it in the town for a
long time. Such things happen only once a year or more around dull old
Stanhope. To-night we meet to see how many have the money earned for the
suits; and I'm glad to say I can cover my needs. You're doubly supplied
now, with this windfall."

"Yes, and I wish I could help some other fellow out; but I'm afraid that
would be against the rules of the game. Here we are at your house, and
bless me if Carlo hasn't carried that basket of provisions straight back
to the kitchen door. Say, he _is_ a trump, sure enough, Jack."

"Oh! that's dead easy for Carlo. Why, we often put a nickel in the
basket, and send him down to the bakery for a loaf of bread," laughed the
other.