As he spoke, Prescott swiftly crouched before Holmes. Dick's
hands rested on his knees; he stuck out his tongue and scowled
fiercely at Holmes, who tried to repay the compliment with interest.

Although all the yearlings in the tent had been "scared stiff"
at Kelton's low, warning signal, all, by an effort, laughed heartily,
their gaze on Prescott and Holmes.

"Yah!" growled Dick. "Perhaps I did steal the widow's chickens,
and I'll even admit that I did appropriate the pennies from her
baby's bank. But that's nothing. Tell 'em about the time you
stole the oats from the blind horse's crib and put breakfast food
in its place."

Everyone of the yearlings in the tent knew that trouble stood
at the door, and that they must keep up the pretence.

There was a chorus of laughter, and two or three applauded.

"I did---admit it," bellowed Greg. "But you stand there and admit
the whole shameful truth about the time that you-----"

"Attention!" called Kelton, turning, then recognizing Lieutenant
Topham and saluting. "The officer in charge!"

On the jump every yearling inside turned and stood rapidly at
attention.

"Gentlemen, I'm sorry to have spoiled the show," laughed Lieutenant
Topham. He had seen the shadows of Briggs and Ellis on the canvas,