Frank and Gus never had a very clear idea as to what occurred during the next few minutes , but vaguely remembered being well shaken , sworn at , questioned , threatened with direful penalties , and finally ordered off the premises forever by the wrathful depot-master . Joe was nowhere to be seen , and as the two culprits walked away , trying to go steadily , while their heads spun round , and all the strength seemed to have departed from their legs , Frank said , in an exhausted tone , -- `` Come down to the boat-house and rest a minute . '' Both were glad to get out of sight , and dropped upon the steps red , rumpled , and breathless , after the late exciting scene . Gus generously forebore to speak , though he felt that he was the least to blame ; and Frank , after eating a bit of snow to moisten his dry lips , said , handsomely , -- `` Now , do n't you worry , old man . I 'll pay the damages , for it was my fault . Joe will dodge , but I wo n't , so make your mind easy . `` We sha 'n' t hear the last of this in a hurry , '' responded Gus , relieved , yet anxious , as he thought of the reprimand his father would give him . `` I hope mother wo n't hear of it till I tell her quietly myself . She will be so frightened , and think I 'm surely smashed up , if she is told in a hurry ; '' and Frank gave a shiver , as all the danger he had run came over him suddenly . `` I thought we were done for when we saw that train . Guess we should have been if you had not had your wits about you . I always said you were a cool one ; '' and Gus patted Frank 's back with a look of great admiration , for , now that it was all over , he considered it a very remarkable performance . `` Which do you suppose it will be , fine or imprisonment ? '' asked Frank , after sitting in a despondent attitude for a moment . `` Should n't wonder if it was both . Running off with an engine is no joke , you know . '' `` What did possess me to be such a fool ? '' groaned Frank , repenting , all too late , of yielding to the temptation which assailed him . `` Bear up , old fellow , I 'll stand by you ; and if the worst comes , I 'll call as often as the rules of the prison allow , '' said Gus , consolingly , as he gave his afflicted friend an arm , and they walked away , both feeling that they were marked men from that day forth . Meantime , Joe , as soon as he recovered from the shock of seeing the boys actually go off , ran away , as fast as his legs could carry him , to prepare Mrs. Minot for the loss of her son ; for the idea of their coming safely back never occurred to him , his knowledge of engines being limited .
A loud ring at the bell brought Mrs. Pecq , who was guarding the house , while Mrs. XXXXX entertained a parlor full of company .
Frank Gus Joe Minot boat-house day depot-master minute minutes reprimand