"I dunno," said the old lady dubiously, pulling up her sleeve,
and examining her arm. "I don't see nothin'; but I expect I've
had some injury to my inards. I feel as ef I'd had a shock
somewhere. Do you think he'll fire again?" she asked, with a
sudden alarm.
"You need not feel alarmed," was the soothing reply. "It was no
doubt an accident."
Turning suddenly, he espied Pomp peering from behind a tree, with
eyes and mouth wide open. The little contraband essayed a hasty
flight; but Mr. Morton, by a masterly flank movement, came upon
him, and brought forward the captive kicking and struggling.
"Le' me go!" said Pomp. "I ain't done noffin'!"
"Didn't you fire a gun at this lady?"
"No," said Pomp boldly. "Wish I may be killed ef I did!"
"I know 'twas you--you--you imp!" exclaimed Mrs. Payson, in
violent indignation. "I seed you do it. You're the wust boy that
ever lived, and you'll be hung jest as sure as I stan' here!"
"How did it happen, Pomp?" asked Mr. Morton quietly.
"It jest shooted itself!" said Pomp, in whom the old lady's words
inspired a vague feeling of alarm.
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