said this, for he often proved to be the
possessor of a tender heart and a forgiving spirit. His mild
proposition was laughed down on the spot.

"Much he'd care what he promised us, if only we let him go scot free,"
jeered one scout. "I've known him to give his solemn word before now,
and break it when he felt like it. I wouldn't trust him out of my
sight. Promises count for nothing with one of Jud Mabley's stamp."

"How about that, Jud?" demanded another boy. "Would you agree to keep
your lips buttoned up, and not tell a word of what you have heard?"

"I ain't promisin' nothin', I want you to know," replied the prisoner,
boldly; "so go on with your funny business. You won't ketch me
squealing worth a cent. Honest to goodness now I half b'lieve it's all
a big bluff. Let's see you do your worst."

"Drag him along to the river bank, fellows, and I'll join you there
with the axe," roared Bobolink, now fully aroused by the obstinate
manner of the captive.

"Wait a bit, fellows."

It was Jack Stormways who said this, and even the impetuous Bobolink
came to a halt.

"Go on Jack. What's your plan?" demanded one of the group.

"I was only going to remind you that in the absence of Mr. Gordon,
Paul is acting as scout-master, and before you do anything that may
reflect upon the good name of Stanhope Troop you'd better listen to
what he's got to say on the subject."

CHAPTER VII

PAUL TAKES A CHANCE

These sensible words spoken by Jack Stormways had an immediate effect
upon the angry scouts, some of whom realized that they had been taking
matters too much in their own hands. Paul had remained silent all this
while, waiting to see just how far the hotheads would go.

"First of all," he went on to say in that calm tone which always
carried conviction with it, "let's go back to the meeting-room, and
take Jud along. I have a reason for wanting you to do that, which you
shall hear right away."

No one offered an objection, although doubtless it was understood that
Paul did not like such radical measures as ducking the spy who had
fallen into their hands. They were by this time fully accustomed to
obeying orders given by a superior officer, which is one of the best
things learned by scouts.

Jud, for some reason, did not attempt to hold back when urged to
accompany them, though for that matter it would have availed him
nothing to have struggled and strained, for at least four sturdy
scouts had their grip on hi