Dirty little urchins abused them as they passed, snarling with assumed bravery, and prepared to run away at the first sign of attack.

And still other little urchins formed a noisy parade at the heels of the boys, and grew bolder with increasing numbers.
"Don't mind them," Joe cautioned.

"Take no notice, but keep right on.
We 'll soon be out of it." "No; we 're in for it," said Fred, in an undertone.

"Look there!" On the corner they were approaching, four or five boys of about their own age were standing.

The light from a street-lamp fell upon them and disclosed one with vivid red hair.