It is hardy necessary to say that the heart of the widow was
unfeignedly thankful for the favorable change in their fortunes,
and she did not omit to give thanks to Providence for raising
up so kind and serviceable a friend.
About the middle of the afternoon Luke made his appearance
in the village street. Though I hope my readers will not suspect
him of being a dude, he certainly did enjoy the consciousness of
being well dressed. He hoped he should meet Randolph, anticipating
the surprise and disappointment of the latter at the evidence
of his prosperity.
When Luke was arrested, Randolph rejoiced as only a mean
and spiteful boy would be capable of doing at the humiliation and
anticipated disgrace of a boy whom he disliked. He had indulged
in more than one expression of triumph, and sought every opportunity
of discussing the subject, to the disgust of all fair-minded persons.
Even Sam Noble protested, though a toady of Randolph.
"Look here, Randolph," he said, "I don't like Luke overmuch,
and I know he doesn't like me, but I don't believe he's a thief,
and I am sorry he is in trouble."
"Then you are no friend of mine," said Randolph, looking black.
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