"No, nor heard from him."

Jack laughed, and told how the detective had tried to get the watchfrom him, and how and why Dr. Wise had refused to give it up.

"Higgins always struck me as being a bit too zealous," exclaimed thelady. "I do not wonder that the doctor refused to deliver it afterthe man's poor account of you. You seem to be a great favoriteboth with the doctor and with the Hilltop boys."

"And deservedly so," echoed Percival. "We won't hear a word againstJack, and it has not spoiled him either."

"And you know about the watch, too?"

"Yes, being in the tent when it dropped out of Jack's pocket. Ihoped he might keep it, but now-----"

"But now you skinnyk that I have a right to it?"