I'd much rather fight my own battles and take an occasional pounding." "Well, perhaps you're right about it," admitted his father thoughtfully.

"At all events, I'm glad to see that your disposition is to take care of your own troubles.

I won't interfere, though I am certain that Mr.Ripley would like to know something about this affair." "I already do know something about it," gravely announced a voice behind them.

There stood Lawyer Ripley, who had dropped in to buy a magazine.
"I shall be glad if you will tell me more about this," the lawyer went on solemnly.
Gladly would Dick have gotten out of it.

He was inclined to say very little, though what he did say was added to by his father.
"Is this the book, in this package ?" inquired Mr.Ripley, as be picked up the parcel.
"Yes," nodded Mr.Prescott.
"And the price ?" "Four dollars." "Mr.Prescott, kindly charge this book to my account, unless I return it by Monday morning," the lawyer went on.