In fact, our hero felt rather indignant, as well as surprised, and on the next visit of Dr. Robinson, he asked: "Hasn't my uncle been here to ask about me?"

 

"Yes," said the old man, unexpectedly.

 

"Why didn't you bring him up here to see me?"

 

"He just inquired how you were, and said he thought you were better off with us than you would be at home."

 

Jack looked fixedly in the face of the pretended doctor, and was convinced that he had been deceived.

 

"I don't believe it," he said.

 

"Oh! do as you like about believing it."

 

"I don't believe you mailed my letter to my uncle."

 

"Have it your own way, my young friend. Of course I can't argue with a maniac."

 

"Don't call me a maniac, you old humbug! You ought to be in jail for this outrage."

 

"Ho, ho! How very amusing you are, my young friend!" said the old man. "You'd make a first-class tragedian, you really would."

 

"I might do something tragic, if I had a weapon," said Jack, significantly. "Are you going to let me out?"

 

"Positively, I can't part with you. You are too good company............