human
Well, the question now arises, said Mr. Howbridge,
gpt
I say take him along with us, answered Hank.
human
One of our critters might get hurt, and we'd have to lay up if we didn't have an extra one.
gpt
I don't believe Uncle Josh would pull in harness with another mule, said Neale.
human
He has always been a trick mule, and has worked alone. He is quite valuable.
gpt
Do you suppose your uncle sold him?
human
I don't believe so, said the boy.
gpt
I believe he was stolen, and I know, in that case, that Uncle Bill would be glad to get him back.
human
Well, then let's take him back, suggested Hank.
gpt
I can drive him along with my mules for a spell until we come to the place where the circus is playing. He'll drive, I guess, if he won't pull a boat, and he'll be company for my mules.
human
How does that plan appeal to you, Minerva? asked Ruth's guardian.
gpt
This is your trip, as well as mine. Do you want to be bothered with an extra mule?
human
Oh, I don't see that he would be any bother, she said.
gpt
If Hank looks after him, we shan't have to. And if it's Neale's uncle's mule he ought to be returned.
human
That settles it, said Mr. Howbridge.
gpt
We'll take the mule with us.
human
I'm sure Uncle Bill will be glad to get him back, declared Neale.
gpt
And I'm pretty sure he never sold him.