`` Yes , sir ; '' and Jack looked up as if proud to show that he was not afraid to tell the truth as far as he could . `` To buy something ? '' `` No , sir . '' `` To meet someone ? '' `` Yes , sir . '' `` Was it Jerry Shannon ? '' No answer , but Jack 's fists doubled up of themselves as he shot another fiery glance at Joe , whose face burned as if it scorched him . `` I am told it was ; also that you were seen to go into the saloon with him . Did you ? '' and Mr. Acton looked so sure that it was a mistake that it cost Jack a great effort to say , slowly , -- `` Yes , sir . '' Quite a thrill pervaded the school at this confession , for Jerry was one of the wild fellows the boys all shunned , and to have any dealings with him was considered a very disgraceful thing . `` Did you play ? '' `` No , sir . I ca n't . '' `` Drink beer ? '' `` I belong to the Lodge ; '' and Jack stood as erect as any little soldier who ever marched under a temperance banner , and fought for the cause none are too young nor too old to help along . `` I was sure of that . Then what took you there , my boy ? '' The question was so kindly put that Jack forgot himself an instant , and blurted out , -- `` I only went to pay him some money , sir . '' `` Ah , how much ? ''
`` Two seventy-five , '' muttered XXXXX , as red as a cherry at not being able to keep a secret better .
Acton Jack Jerry Joe Shannon confession money question sir thing