But apart from
these things she was of little interest to him. His world was in
Hillcrest, and not far away in some big city.
The next day Captain Josh and his charge reached the city, when they
went at once to Peter McDuff's store. They were kept waiting for some
time, as the owner was not in. When he returned the captain stated the
object of their visit, and how the boy wished to get his money in order
to buy his scout suit.
Going into his little office, McDuff remained there for about ten
minutes, which seemed much longer to those waiting outside. When he
did come out he handed the captain the account he had made up, and then
proceeded to thumb over several bills.
Captain Josh examined the paper carefully, and then handed it to Rod
without a word of comment. The latter gave one quick glance, and his
face became pale, while his eyes grew big with astonishment.
"What is it, lad?" the captain queried. "Find somethin' queer there,
eh?"
"Yes, sir," was the reply; "I don't understand it at all. I sent down
one hundred boxes, and this paper gives only eighty. And, oh, look, he
pays only six cents a box," and Rod held up the account for the captain
to see.
"What's the meaning of this?" and Captain Josh turned suddenly upon
McDuff, who was keenly watching the two.
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