effort.

"Well, Jim, we want to be friends," Max went on. "Suppose you tell us what
it's all about, won't you?"

Something in his cheery tone, as well as the kind expression upon his face,
seemed to give renewed confidence to the poor little chap.

This may have been the first time a stranger had ever spoken to him after
such a fashion. Perhaps he had had a cruel experience with the world, and
was accustomed to looking upon all strangers as enemies.

But, now, the look of fear left his face, though there still remained that
expression of agony.

"Reckon as how he's goin' tuh cash in, stranger," he said; and Max grasped
the meaning of his words, although they were next door to Greek to
Bandy-legs.

"Who do you mean by saying he?" asked Max.

"Dad," answered the forlorn specimen, drawing down the corners of his
mouth.

"Is he sick?" continued Max.

"Nope. Got hurted bad. Falled down a big drop. Reckon like he's a sure
goner," the boy whimpered.

"Where is he now?" the other asked, briskly.