toward the court-room.

CHAPTER XV.

THE TRIAL.

The door-keeper of the court attempted to check the rush which began
with the entrance of Seth, Dan, and Bill; but it was impossible because
of his delay.

He had at first objected to admitting the amateur fireman and his
partner, but they speedily proved they were entitled to enter, by
producing the subpoenas, and as he stepped aside for them to go in,
the following came on with a rush as powerful as it was unexpected.

The official would have swept down upon the offenders and literally
dragged them out, but that 'Lish Davis, who was standing just inside the
door, said with a laugh:

"I don't reckon you've got time to sort 'em, Mr. Officer. A kid is to be
tried for arson this morning, and more'n likely as not half the crowd
has been summoned as witnesses, for it's only through his acquaintances
that anything can be proven."

The door-keeper looked for an instant at the buzzing throng which had
settled down upon the front seats, and, understanding what a difficult
task he might be setting himself, evidently decided that Mr. Davis was
in the right.

Sam Barney already sat on the front row of seats allotted to spectators
when Mrs. Hanson's lodgers entered, and although Seth would have been
better pleased to remain at a greater distance from the would-be
detective, Bill Dean forced him along until they were directly behind
Jip's enemy.

"Don't speak to him," Seth whispered. "I'm sorry we're so near the
duffer."

"It's jest where I counted on gettin'," Bill replied, in a tone of
satisfaction. "I won't have any row with the chump, but only shake him
up a bit."

"If we make any noise, all hands will be fired out."

"Watch an' see how quiet I'll be," Master Dean replied, and then before
his companion could check him, he had leaned over and whispered in Sam's
ear: "Be mighty careful you tell the truth in this court, or I'll let
out to the judge what you did in Philadelphy, an' then perhaps Jip
Collins won't be the only prisoner 'round here."

Master Barney turned quickly, and an expression of disquiet came over
his face as he saw who were directly behind him.

He did not venture to make any remark, nor did Bill think it wise to
repeat the threat; but he shook his fist warningly, which served the
same purpose.

"Be quiet," Seth whispered imploringly. "It would be terrible if we got
into a row here, for Mr. Davis is standing close by the door watchin'