306 THE LAND OF PLUCK

him, screaming with terror at the father’s outlandish dress.
The boys were crowding about Limpetty Jack, cheering
him, shaking his hands, clapping his shoulders, and thank-
ing him with full hearts. He seemed dazed at tirst; but
after they had hurried him into the nearest house, and put
dry clothes upon him, he asked for little Philly Mac, and
wept with joy to know that the child was safe.

Strange to say, he seemed to brighten in his wits from
that day. It might have been owing to the shock, or to
his bravery in saving little Phil, or to the fact that people
young and old at last thought of helping him. Certain
it is, the boys were his friends. Never again did even
the most mischievous among them play any prank upon
Limpetty Jack.