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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Banner Boy Scouts, by George A. Warren
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Banner Boy Scouts
+       Or, The Struggle for Leadership
+
+Author: George A. Warren
+
+Release Date: December 9, 2005 [EBook #17266]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BANNER BOY SCOUTS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Garcia, Mary Meehan and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                          The Banner Boy Scouts
+
+                      Or The Struggle for Leadership
+
+                           By GEORGE A. WARREN
+
+
+
+
+THE WORLD SYNDICATE PUBLISHING CO.
+CLEVELAND, O.       NEW YORK, N.Y.
+
+Copyright, MCMXII
+
+by CUPPLES & LEON COMPANY
+
+_Printed in the United States of America_
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+
+CHAPTER
+
+       I A Meeting in the Barn
+
+      II What it Means to be a Boy Scout
+
+     III The Disappearing Coins
+
+      IV The First Scout Leader
+
+       V Checking a Coward
+
+      VI A Strange Suggestion
+
+     VII The Trap that Peleg Set
+
+    VIII Turning the Tables
+
+      IX "Well Done, My Boy!"
+
+       X An Unexpected Offer
+
+      XI Caught Napping
+
+     XII The Rival Troops
+
+    XIII "Fire!"
+
+     XIV Jack's Chance
+
+      XV The Honor Brand
+
+     XVI The Fire Test
+
+    XVII Clearing Skies
+
+   XVIII Carlo Does His Turn
+
+     XIX The Warning Over the Wire
+
+      XX Such Glorious Luck
+
+     XXI The Meeting
+
+    XXII Scouting in Earnest
+
+   XXIII The Red Car
+
+    XXIV A Call for Help
+
+     XXV A Camp in the Woods
+
+    XXVI What Woodcraft Told
+
+   XXVII Ted Finds Something
+
+  XXVIII Forced to Tell
+
+    XXIX The Capture
+
+     XXX Found Out at Last
+
+    XXXI Well Done, Stanhope Troop!--Conclusion
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE
+
+
+My Dear Boys:
+
+Knowing that ninety-nine lads out of every hundred love outdoor life
+above all else, I have taken it upon myself to give you a series of
+what I hope will prove to be clean, wide-awake, up-to-date stories,
+founded upon a subject that is interesting our whole nation--the Boy
+Scouts of America. You know what a hold this movement has taken upon
+the rising generation of our broad land. There never was anything like
+it before--there never may be again.
+
+At first many people made the mistake of believing that it was simply a
+new military order, and that boys who joined were to be taught the duties
+of soldiers, and learned how to fight. They know better now. It is really
+the greatest movement for Peace ever started. Not only that, but the lads
+who belong to this vast organization are taught how to be manly, self
+reliant, brave, courteous, kindly and steadfast.
+
+When you examine the roster of the officers who have loaned their names
+to help along the good cause you will find such honored signatures as
+those of President William Howard Taft, ex-President Theodore Roosevelt,
+and many others dear to the hearts of our boys.
+
+This glorious field opens up a very tempting opportunity for a series of
+stirring stories concerning the fortunes of _real_ Boy Scouts, who have
+gone into the movement heart and soul, with a desire to excel in all they
+undertake; and at the same time enjoy themselves hugely. I only hope and
+trust that you may be pleased with what you read in this book, about the
+doings of the Red Fox Patrol, of Stanhope Troop, and that the story
+will do you much good.
+
+Yours faithfully,
+
+George A. Warren.
+
+
+
+
+THE BANNER BOY SCOUTS
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I
+
+A MEETING IN THE BARN
+
+
+"All here now, Paul!"
+
+"Call the roll, somebody, won't you?"
+
+"Keep quiet, fellows, please!"
+
+"Shall I strike a match, Paul?"
+
+"Not on your life, Bobolink. That crowd of Ted Slavin's is out, looking
+for us. Somebody must have leaked, or else Ted was tipped off. We've got
+to be mighty cautious, I tell you, if we want to give them the slip."
+
+"S-s-say, d-d-don't you k-k-know we've got a fi-fine b-b-barn on our
+p-p-place, fellows?"
+
+"For goodness sake; won't somebody please pound Bluff Shipley on the
+back, and make him bite his twisted tongue, so he can talk straight?"
+cried a pleading voice.
+
+"Listen!"
+
+There must have been a streak of authority in the tone used by Paul
+Morrison when he spoke this last word; every one of the other six boys
+crouched there, craning his neck, and listening to catch the unusual
+sound that had apparently reached the trained ears of their leader.
+
+The woods surrounded the boys on all sides, gloomy, and full of
+mystifying noises.
+
+Yet Paul knew full well just what every one of the sounds meant. An owl
+called mournfully to its mate from a hollow tree. Katydids and merry
+crickets added their shrill music to the chorus of that late summer
+night. Even a colony of tree frogs solemnly chanted their appeal for
+"more rain."
+
+During the day just ended six fellows in the thriving town of Stanhope
+had received urgent telephone calls from Paul, who was an only son of the
+leading doctor in the place.
+
+And each boy had promised to meet him at the Three Oaks by the time the
+clock in the church steeple had struck eight.
+
+It was even now booming out the hour.
+
+When the last stroke died away, the most impatient among the gathered
+boys moved restlessly.
+
+"Follow me, fellows," said Paul, in a low, thrilling tone.
+
+"Where are we heading for?" queried one, who had as yet failed to express
+his feelings in the matter.
+
+This was Wallace Carberry, the sober member of the pair known far
+and wide as the Carberry Twins; his mate, William, being his exact
+counterpart in every particular, when he chose to repress the
+good-natured grin that usually marked his fate.
+
+"To the Shipley barn; single file; and silence is the watchword!"
+
+Paul Morrison had long enjoyed the confidence of his comrades in most
+matters pertaining to outdoor sports. A healthy lad, both in mind and
+body, he was never so happy as when studying the secrets of Nature in
+wood and meadow; or in playing any of the various strenuous games to
+which all boys with red blood in their veins are addicted.
+
+And when he sent out his mysterious request that some of his most
+intimate friends meet him on this night, as he had a communication
+of importance to put up to them, the greatest curiosity made itself
+manifest.
+
+Paul never suggested ordinary things. More than once he had engineered
+some game that brought honor and glory to the boys of Stanhope; and
+remembering these satisfactory "stunts" of old, it was no wonder these
+fellows had come to the place of meeting without a single exception.
+
+With Bluff Shipley close upon the heels of the leader, and Robert Oliver
+Link, whose name had long since been corrupted into Bobolink, bringing
+up the rear, the seven lads trailed through the woods, following some
+path with which they were evidently more or less familiar.
+
+Several times Paul gave a recognized signal that caused every one of the
+bunch to stop short, and turn his head on one side in the endeavor to
+discover whether hostile footsteps could be heard in their rear.
+
+But although there were doubtless many rustling sounds, the boys laid
+these to the bright-eyed little denizens of that strip of woodland. Too
+often had they watched the chipmunks and red squirrels hunting for nuts
+under the already falling leaves, not to know that the forest was peopled
+with these harmless animals.
+
+After five minutes more there loomed up before them the dark outlines of
+a huge barn that seemed rather out of place here on the border of the
+woods.
+
+This belonged to the father of Bluff, who, being a prosperous tobacco
+grower in this valley, used the place to cure the product of his broad
+fields, after it had been harvested in the fall.
+
+Paul had been carrying some sort of package in his hand, and the boys for
+some time amused themselves in guessing its nature. When he took off the
+paper it stood revealed as a lantern, ready for lighting.
+
+"Show us the way inside, Bluff. Then we'll have a little light on the
+subject," remarked the leader, with a last anxious searching look around;
+as though he still entertained suspicions that their march to the old
+barn might have been observed by some of the hostile Slavin crowd.
+
+Ted Slavin had long been known as the bully of Stanhope; for it seems
+that there never yet existed a village or town without some big chap
+exercising that privilege. He was a fighter, too, and able to hold his
+own against the best. Besides, Ted had shown some of the qualities that
+indicate a natural leader; though he held the allegiance of those who
+trailed after him mostly through fear, rather than any respect for his
+manly qualities.
+
+His leading crony for the past year had been Ward Kenwood, son of the
+wealthy banker who was also a leading real estate owner in the place.
+Once upon a time Ward would have scorned the thought of associating with
+Slavin and his crowd; but an occasion had arisen whereby he had need of
+a strong arm to even up a score, and once he found himself indebted to
+Ted he kept on in the bully's company.
+
+His rivalry in many fields with Paul had much to do with his throwing his
+fortunes in with the other fellows. And nothing pleased him more than to
+be able to upset any calculations the latter entertained. That explained
+why Paul was anxious to avoid a meeting with the Slavin crowd on this
+particular night, when he was brimming over with a great idea.
+
+Once the boys had entered the barn, Bluff secured the door, after which
+a match was quickly lighted.
+
+"Now, here we are, safe and sound, and not an enemy around. Suppose you
+open up, Paul, and get this load off our minds," said Albert Cypher, who
+seldom heard his own name among his friends, but was known far and wide
+as Nuthin'.
+
+But what else could a lad expect who was so unfortunate as to find
+himself afflicted with such a name as A. Cypher?
+
+"Yes, what's it all mean, Paul? You haven't even taken me in, you know,
+and I'm as much in the dark as the next fellow," remarked Jack Stormways,
+reproachfully; for being Paul's closest chum he might have expected to
+share his confidence.
+
+"Wait a bit. We might as well make ourselves comfortable while we're
+about it. I'll sit down on this box, and the rest of you gather around on
+the floor. I've got a big proposition to make, and you want to listen
+carefully."
+
+"T-t-take c-c-care of the lantern, f-f-fellows; my d-d-dad's w-w-wanting
+this old barn f-f-for his t-t-tobacco crop, and he'd b-b-be some put out
+if it b-b-burned just now!" came from Bluff.
+
+Finding perches on various low piles of waste left over after the
+shipment of the last crop, the six lads gathered around Paul, eagerness
+stamped on every beaming face.
+
+"Now, what's the idea that struck you this time, Paul?" demanded
+Bobolink.
+
+"I'll tell you without any beating around the bush, fellows. The thought
+came to me that Stanhope was away behind the times. Other towns not
+nearly so big, have one or more troops of Boy Scouts. Why shouldn't we
+get up one here?" and Paul waited to hear what the response would be.
+
+The six who sat in a ring looked at each other as though stunned by the
+proposal. It was strange, indeed, that no one had up to this time taken
+a lead in advancing such a thing.
+
+"Bully idea, Paul!" ejaculated Jack, slapping a hand on his knee
+enthusiastically, as though it appealed to him most decidedly.
+
+"Well, I declare, to think that nobody ever mentioned such a grand
+movement before. Count me in right from the start!" said Wallace
+Carberry--sober Wallace, who usually measured his words as though they
+were golden.
+
+"And me too," observed Bobolink.
+
+"Ditto for William!" called out the other Carberry Twin, grinning with
+delight.
+
+"G-g-guess I'd make a bully good t-t-tenderfoot!"
+
+"That's the best thing you ever thought up, old chap," came from Nuthin'.
+
+"Hurrah! every county heard from, and not one contrary word. It looks
+as if there might be something doing right soon around this region,"
+declared Paul, naturally pleased because his proposition had met with
+such unanimous satisfaction.
+
+"Tell us more about it, please. I've read about the Boy Scouts; but my
+mother would take a fit if she thought I was practicing to become a
+soldier. You see, I had an older brother, who enlisted to go out with
+some of the boys when we had our little fuss about Cuba and the
+Philippines; and poor Frank died in camp of typhoid fever. I'll have a
+hard time winning her over, and the dad, too," remarked Bobolink, sadly.
+
+"Well, that's where you make a big mistake, Bobolink. Over in England,
+where the Boy Scout movement started, it has some connection with the
+army, because there, you see, every fellow expects at some time to serve
+his country as a soldier, or on board a naval vessel. But here in
+America, the movement is one for peace."
+
+"Then what's all the doings about?" asked Nuthin', as if puzzled.
+
+"I know, and Paul is right about it," came from Wallace Carberry, always
+quite a reader of newspapers and magazines.
+
+"Let him tell then. I'm for the game, no matter what it means," cried
+Bobolink.
+
+"And I think Bluff knows something about it, for he said he would do for
+the lowest grade of scout, which is the tenderfoot. But I don't think any
+of you are qualified to take even that degree; for a tenderfoot must
+first be familiar with scout law, sign, salute, and know what his badge
+means; he must know about our national flag, and the usual forms of
+salute due to it; and be able to tie some seven or eight common knots.
+How about that, Bluff?"
+
+"N-n-not guilty!" promptly answered the one addressed.
+
+"Say, that sounds interesting any way. Tell us some more about this,
+Paul!" exclaimed William, always eager to hear of anything that smacked
+of novelty.
+
+"Well, there are two more degrees a fellow can climb up to, a
+second-class scout, and a first-class scout, full fledged. After that, if
+he wants to keep right on there are merit badges to be won for excelling
+in angling, athletics, camping, cooking at the campfire, taxidermy, first
+aid to the injured, handicraft, life saving, path-finding, and a lot
+more."
+
+"Now you've got me stuck on this new game," cried Bobolink, excitedly.
+"The more you explain the better I like the idea. Me for the Boy Scouts,
+fellows!"
+
+"Hear! Hear! Paul, the idea is yours, and we vote unanimously that you
+occupy the exalted position of scout master--I know that every troop has
+to have such a head, and you're better fitted for the job than any fellow
+in town!"
+
+"Yes," laughed Paul, "but unfortunately, I believe a scout master has to
+be over twenty-one years of age."
+
+"Who knows the ways of the open like our Paul? He's the right man in the
+right place. Say, are there any books on the subject, that we can get,
+and learn more about this thing?" asked Wallace, who seemed to be
+particularly well pleased.
+
+"I've already sent for a manual, and expect it by to-morrow; when we can
+find out all about it. But wishing to be posted when I put the question I
+went over the river to Aldine to-day, and saw some of the boys there who
+belong to the Scouts. They made me more anxious than ever to start a
+patrol in our home town."
+
+"But I've seen something about a troop?" remarked Jack Stormways, who,
+Paul thought, seemed unusually sober for a boy ordinarily light-hearted.
+
+"Yes, a troop takes in say, three local posts called patrols, each of
+which has eight members. It is known by a number, as Troop One of Boston;
+and each minor organization takes a name of some animal, such as wildcat
+or fox. If it is called Fox, every boy belonging to it is supposed to be
+able to bark like a fox, so as to be able to signal a comrade while
+scouting in the woods."
+
+"Ginger! but that does sound interesting," declared William.
+
+"It's j-j-just immense, that's w-w-what!" was Bluff's opinion.
+
+"Listen! I heard a laugh as sure as anything!" exclaimed Paul, lifting a
+hand to indicate silence; and every one of the group assumed an attitude
+of expectancy.
+
+As they waited there suddenly came a tremendous crash, as some object
+landed forcibly against the wooden side of the old barn. It was instantly
+followed by a second bang, and others came quick and fast, until the
+noise might be likened to a bombardment from a hostile battery.
+
+"It's the Slavin crowd!" called Bobolink, excitedly jumping to his feet.
+"They followed us here after all, and have been listening to every word!"
+
+"All hands to repel boarders!" shouted Paul; and with a cheer the
+seven boys rushed over to the door, out of which they sprang, bent
+on retaliating on their tormentors.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II
+
+WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A BOY SCOUT
+
+
+"Where are the stone throwers?" shouted the merry member of the Carberry
+Twins, as he danced up and down, eagerly trying to discover some moving
+object in the surrounding darkness.
+
+"Gone like smoke, I guess," laughed Paul, who had really expected
+something of this sort, judging from past experiences with these same
+tormentors.
+
+"Look there, I can see something moving yonder. Get ready to give a
+volley!" cried Nuthin', pointing as he spoke.
+
+"H-h-hold on, f-f-fellows, d-d-don't fire yet! It's only our old d-d-dun
+cow!" gasped Bluff, excitedly; as he waved his arms up and down after the
+manner of a cheer captain at a college football game.
+
+"They've lit out, that's what," grumbled William, who felt as though
+cheated.
+
+"All right, then. It's just as well, for a fight would be a mighty poor
+way of preparing to join the scout movement. You'll learn what I mean
+later on when you hear the twelve points of the law that every fellow
+must subscribe to," observed Paul, seriously.
+
+"What d'ye mean, Paul?" demanded Bobolink, quickly.
+
+"Yes, tell us right now what the twelve rules are," said William.
+
+"I know, for I read all about them a few days ago," remarked Wallace,
+readily.
+
+"All right, then, suppose you call them off. What does a scout promise to
+be if allowed to wear the uniform, Wallace?" asked the leader.
+
+"To be trustworthy, loyal, helpful to others, friendly, courteous, kind,
+obedient to his superiors, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent."
+
+"Why, it doesn't say a single word about fighting!" ejaculated William.
+
+"Because a scout must never fight save as a last resort, and then only to
+save some weak one from punishment. He must be brave to face danger, to
+stop a runaway horse; or jump in and keep another from drowning. Do you
+get on to the meaning of this movement, fellows?" asked Paul, eagerly.
+The more he read about it the greater became his desire to have a hand in
+organizing a Stanhope troop that might compete with those of Aldine and
+Manchester, two rival towns, both on the opposite side of the Bushkill
+River, the former a few miles up-stream, and the latter the same distance
+down.
+
+"We do, and I tell you I like it better and better the more I hear of
+it," said Jack, earnestly. "Why, I just had an idea it meant being junior
+soldiers, and drilling so as to be ready to invade Canada, or repel the
+yellow peril when the little Japs swarmed across the Pacific. Count me
+in, Paul."
+
+"If I can pass the examination I'm going with you, sure," observed
+William.
+
+"All right, but if they take you in just remember that you've got to quit
+your playing tricks on everybody, William," declared the other Carberry
+Twin.
+
+"Listen to him, will you? He's feeling hard on me just because dad gave
+him a touch of the cane last night, thinking it was me. As if I was to
+blame for looking like my brother," the other said, plaintively, though
+chuckling at the same time.
+
+"You know you fixed it so he'd pounce on me. I'm always in hot water
+because you must have your fun. 'Taint fair, and I'd have to be an angel
+not to kick. Oh! I hope you get to be a scout, because then I'll have
+some peace," declared Wallace; but all the others knew very well what a
+deep and abiding affection there really lay between the Carberry Twins.
+
+"Let's go home now. No use staying any longer out here, with Ted Slavin
+and his cronies hanging around, ready to bombard us again. Besides, I
+guess Paul wants to wait till he gets his book before telling us any more
+about the game."
+
+"Right you are, Nuthin'. I only wanted to see how the land lay, and if
+you took to the idea. I'm satisfied already that it's going to make a
+hit, if we can get a few more fellows to join in with us," said Paul.
+
+"I know one good recruit I can drum up--Tom Bates," spoke up Albert.
+
+"And a good addition to the seven now here. That would make our first
+patrol," echoed the leader, quickly.
+
+"How about inviting some of the Slavin crowd to join us?" asked Bobolink.
+
+"Well, perhaps we might pick a couple there; but I think you'll have to
+be getting up early in the morning to manage it," replied Paul,
+meaningly.
+
+"What's that?" asked William.
+
+"Just this. Ted Slavin has heard our plans. You know that he never likes
+to see anybody else pull down the plums. What will he do right away,
+fellows?"
+
+"Go and see his shadow, Ward Kenwood, and get him to put up the money to
+start the ball rolling. My word for it that inside of a week there'll be
+two rival Boy Scout troops in little old Stanhope," remarked Jack
+Stormways.
+
+"Say, that would be great, if the other crowd only acted on the square,"
+ventured William. "We could have all sorts of contests between us. But
+I know Ted Slavin too well to believe he'll ever subscribe to the twelve
+rules Wallace mentioned. Why, he'd have to be made all over again to do
+that."
+
+"Look here, Paul, if a fellow has to live up to the rules, however could
+the members of Ted's company be taken into a troop of Boy Scouts?" asked
+Bobolink, who always sought information.
+
+"I don't believe they ever could. Still, there's no law in the land to
+prevent any lot of boys from forming a patrol, and calling themselves
+scouts. That's my way of looking at it," was the answer the leader gave.
+
+The lads were now on their way home, the lantern having been secured, and
+extinguished, lest it invite another bombardment on the part of their
+tormentors, doubtless still hovering somewhere nearby.
+
+No further attack came, however, for which some of them were possibly
+sorry, particularly William and Bluff, who delighted in strenuous action
+at all times.
+
+On the border of the town the seven separated into three groups, the
+twins going off arm in arm, Bluff, Bobolink and A. Cypher forming
+another; while Paul and his particular chum made up the third.
+
+"Well," said Paul, as they headed for the house of his comrade, which
+chanced to come before his own, "what do you think of my scheme, Jack?"
+
+"Immense, that's what. I'm only astonished that nobody else took up with
+the idea before. Poor old Stanhope seems to be away behind the times,
+Paul."
+
+"Well, I don't know. We've had lots going on this summer to take up our
+time; and then most of us were away during part of the vacation. There
+are other towns just as slow to catch on," returned the other, loyal to
+the place of his birth.
+
+"But now that the ball has been started rolling, just watch how fast it
+gathers force. I know how you go at these things. And of all the fellows
+I ever met, you are the one best fitted to lead in this thing, if I
+understand the game right. Why, it's just going to fit in with the things
+you've preached and practiced for years."
+
+"That's why it appealed so strongly to me, after I really understood what
+the many duties of a scout were supposed to be. But what's the matter
+with you, Jack?"
+
+"Eh? With me? Oh, nothing much, Paul."
+
+But the other knew better, for he had noticed a frown come over Jack's
+usually smiling countenance more than once that evening, when the other
+thought he was not observed; and from this Paul felt positive his chum
+was worrying about something.
+
+"Of course, if you think it best not to take me in on it, I'm the last
+one to bother you, old chap," he went on, when Jack interrupted him.
+
+"It wasn't that, Paul, not in the least. To tell the truth I've been
+thinking it over, and just about made up my mind that I must tell some
+one, or I'd never sleep easy. And of all my friends you're the one
+closest to me. Yes, I'm going to confess that there is something that
+puzzles me, and fills me with alarm."
+
+"Say, is it as bad as that, Jack? But how is it you don't want to go to
+your own folks? You've got one of the best dads I ever knew, and your
+mother, well, few are in the same class with her."
+
+"That's just it, Paul. I'd hate to have either of them know anything
+about this trouble."
+
+Paul swung his friend around so that he could see into his face; for they
+were just passing a street lamp at the time.
+
+"Oh! I can look you in the eyes, old fellow. It isn't anything
+disgraceful I've been doing, not at all. But you see," and again that
+frown darkened Jack's brow as unpleasant things presented themselves
+before his mind's eye, "it's a family affair, I'm afraid, and must be
+kept quiet."
+
+"Now you _have_ got me to guessing good and hard. Suppose you tell me
+what it's all about. I hope your brother, Karl--" and there Paul stopped,
+for by instinct he seemed to feel that he had guessed the truth the first
+shot.
+
+Jack had given a huge sigh that seemed to well up from his heart.
+
+"Yes, it's about Karl, only I do hope that it will prove a false alarm,
+because I just can't believe he'd do such a rotten thing," the other went
+on, slowly.
+
+"But he's only a little fellow after all, Jack?"
+
+"That's so, but old enough to know better. You shall hear it all, and
+then perhaps you'll advise me what to do," went on Paul's chum, with
+a vein of relief in his voice, as though he felt better already, after
+deciding to share his trouble with another.
+
+"That's right, and you know that it goes no further, Jack."
+
+"Karl got into some mischief a week ago, and to punish him father cut off
+his allowance of spending money for a whole month. Now, Karl belongs to a
+boys' club, and I heard that at their last meeting the other day he paid
+up his dues, and seemed to have plenty of money. The question that is
+bothering me is, where did he get it?"
+
+"Oh! is that all? Why, you forget that your brother is a bright chap; and
+I imagine you'll find he's been earning it some way or other; or perhaps
+his mother gave it to him. But see here, there's more back of this than
+you've told me?" declared Paul, suddenly.
+
+"There is," replied his chum. "Listen now, and for goodness sake I hope
+you can cheer me up some, by explaining a mystery that's bothering me.
+It's about those old coins Uncle Reuben sent to me two years ago. There
+are some twenty-one in the lot. They're copper coins, you know and I
+don't suppose worth much. I've always kept them in a little open cedar
+box on my table up in the den; you've spoken about them more than once."
+
+"Sure, I remember all about them; but you don't mean to say--" and there
+Paul stopped, almost afraid to voice the thought that flashed before his
+mind.
+
+"Yes, a bunch of them have gone in a mighty queer way. Why this morning
+there were just fourteen left; but to tell the truth I was afraid to go
+up there at supper time when I came in after our last game of ball on the
+lot, to see if any more had disappeared."
+
+"Say it plainly, Jack. Some one is taking your old coins, sent by your
+uncle, and you're just afraid it's Karl, tempted to get some money in
+that way. But where could he sell them, do you think?"
+
+"There's old Doc. Thomes, who keeps stamps and curios for sale. I've seen
+some coins in his window often. He would know the value of these, and
+perhaps be willing to pay something for them. Oh! it's just awful even to
+suspect my brother of being guilty of such a mean thing. I hate myself
+for allowing it, and have made up my mind just to hide the rest away, and
+never say a word."
+
+"No, I wouldn't do that, Paul. In the first place it isn't fair to Karl."
+
+"Fair? What can you mean? I wouldn't ever say a word to him, never!"
+
+"That's just it, but you would _think_ it always; and if he is innocent,
+why you see what a shame that would be. No, you ought to learn the truth,
+even though determined to keep your mouth shut afterward. In justice to
+Karl, you _must_ know!"
+
+"I believe you are right, old fellow. And I'm going to be guided by what
+you say. Come in with me, won't you?" pleaded Jack.
+
+"Yes," answered Paul, promptly. "On condition that you take me up to your
+den, where we can talk without being disturbed."
+
+"You have an object in saying that. I believe you want to see for
+yourself if any more of my coins have disappeared?" declared the other.
+
+"I acknowledge the corn, for that is just what I wanted to learn, Jack."
+
+"I suppose the sooner I take the bull by the horns, the quicker we can
+learn the truth; so come on in," and taking his chum by the arm Jack led
+the way boldly up to the door of the Stormways' house.
+
+They managed to pass upstairs to the third floor without attracting any
+attention, the family being gathered around a table in the living room,
+reading.
+
+No sooner had the lamp been lighted, after the door was closed, than Paul
+stepped over to the table desk which he knew so well.
+
+Just as Jack had said, there was a little cedar box standing in plain
+view, and the coins it held attracted his eye.
+
+Slowly and deliberately he proceeded to count them, while his chum
+awaited the result with abated breath, and his eyes turned in another
+direction.
+
+"Well?" said Jack, hoarsely, when he saw that the other had dropped all
+of the coins back, one by one.
+
+"You said there were fourteen left this morning, didn't you, Jack?"
+
+"Yes, and now?"
+
+"I find just eight here, that's all!" came the answer that caused the
+wretched brother of young Karl Stormways to shiver and sigh dismally.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III
+
+THE DISAPPEARING COINS
+
+
+"Just thirteen gone now," said Jack, as he bent over to look for himself.
+
+"Of course you know what they were, those that are missing?" suggested
+Paul.
+
+"I have a list of the bunch somewhere; made it out one day just for fun.
+Yes, I think I could tell them again; but I never would have the heart to
+accuse old Doc. Thomes of buying stolen coins; and the thief--never!"
+
+"I didn't mean that, Jack; you mistook me. Suppose I had that list, and
+rooting over all the little boxes he keeps his coins in for sale, found
+every one of the missing ones there?"
+
+"Yes, and then what?" asked the other, greatly affected, though watching
+his chum's face eagerly, as though something seemed to tell him Paul
+would find a way out of the difficulty, such was his faith in the other.
+
+"Why, perhaps you might buy the whole lot back, for almost a song, and
+never say a word."
+
+A hand crept out and squeezed Paul's warmly; and there were tears in the
+eyes of Jack Stormways as he made answer.
+
+"Just like you, old fellow, to cheer me up like that. Here, let me hunt
+up the list for you. But promise that you won't whisper one little hint
+to a living soul. Oh! Karl, how could you?"
+
+"Hold on, don't judge him before you know. Believe him innocent until you
+find proof otherwise. I guess you'll learn that one of the first things a
+scout has to do is to believe in his brothers and friends through thick
+and thin, until the proof has become positive, or the guilty one
+confesses. And another thing, Jack, in case the worst comes true, it's up
+to us to make sure that such a miserable thing never happens again. We
+must save the one in error, save him through kindness and sympathy. How
+old is Karl?"
+
+"A little over ten."
+
+"Too young to join the troop then, for all boys have to be twelve or
+over, according to the rules, I was told. But they have younger fellows
+in the bunch over at Aldine, I'm sure. One I saw strutting around in a
+uniform looked like a kid of eight or nine. Never mind; I believe it'll
+all come out right yet. Perhaps some servant may have taken them?" said
+Paul, wishing to buoy up his chum's spirits.
+
+"We only have one, and she's been with us ever since I was born. No use
+thinking Maggie would touch a single thing," declared Jack, quickly, with
+a shake of his head.
+
+Paul sauntered about the room for a few minutes. Apparently he was
+glancing at the numerous college pennants and other things that were
+upon the walls; but in reality he found himself wrestling with the
+strange puzzle that was giving his chum so much concern.
+
+Presently he stood by the window, which was partly open.
+
+"Who owns the Dempsey house now, Jack?" he asked, indicating the building
+next door.
+
+"Oh! it is still for sale," replied the other. "They don't want to rent
+it again, you know, and ever since that last party moved out of town and
+left things looking so bad, Mr. Dempsey has kept it closed up."
+
+"When he lived here, you and Scissors used to be something of chums,
+didn't you?" Paul went on.
+
+"Well, yes," the other admitted, "when we were smaller. But ever since
+Scissors started going with the Slavin crowd I've cut him dead."
+
+"I wish I lived as close to you as this," Paul observed. "Why, we could
+nearly shake hands across the gap. I don't suppose Scissors ever drops in
+to see you nowadays?"
+
+"I should say not," laughed Jack; "why, we've been at swords points now
+for a year and more, and never even speak as we pass each other."
+
+"Oh! well, of course then it would be silly to think of suspecting him,"
+remarked Paul as he sat down again.
+
+But nevertheless, many times his eyes seemed to turn toward that partly
+opened window, and then in the direction of the low desk where the box of
+coins stood.
+
+"Scissors" Dempsey had come by his nickname because of a peculiar trick
+he had of keeping his knees stiff when walking. Long ago one boy had
+likened his long legs to a pair of scissors, and quick to take up a
+humorous name like this, his mates had called him nothing else in years.
+
+"Well, it's a mighty funny thing where that bunch of old copper coins
+has gone to!" remarked Jack, presently, unable, it seemed, to think of
+anything else just then.
+
+"I believe this den of yours is hardly ever locked," remarked Paul,
+presently, "and all persons can come up here whenever they choose. I've
+even often found your dog Carlo sleeping here. Why, if any friend calls
+to see you, and wants to wait till you come home, he just meanders up
+here as he pleases, and amuses himself looking over your books and
+magazines. Isn't that so, Jack?"
+
+"Sure. My mother says this is Liberty Hall, judging from the way all my
+chums go and come. But what's got you now? Do you think some other chap
+may have fallen into the nasty habit of helping himself to my coins,
+either to swell out his own collection, or to sell them to Doc. Thomes?"
+
+"Oh! hardly that, although it seems possible. But don't worry too much
+about it, Jack. I'm sure we'll discover the truth sooner or later."
+
+"Anyhow I'll have eight to hide away; part of a loaf is better than no
+bread," remarked the other, dejectedly.
+
+"Oh! I wouldn't put them away, not just yet, anyhow, Jack."
+
+"But, my goodness, perhaps I'll lose all of my coins if I leave them
+around like this any longer on my desk!"
+
+"That's so, but don't you see if you hide them, it shuts us off from ever
+learning who is taking them."
+
+"Oh! I see. You mean to catch him at it some time; is that the idea,
+Paul?"
+
+"Nothing less. I'll drop in at the old dealer in curios to-morrow, and
+find out if he has any that are on this list. Listen, there's somebody at
+the door!"
+
+"It's only Carlo, scratching to get in. Open the door, please, Paul."
+
+As the other did so a large Newfoundland dog stalked solemnly in, paid
+little heed to either of the occupants of the den, but snuggled down in
+a corner, where there was an old cushion, evidently placed there for his
+especial use.
+
+"My! he's getting fatter than ever," remarked Paul, surveying the bulging
+sides of the shaggy canine, as he curled himself up as if to sleep.
+
+"I believe he is, the scamp. I see it when I put him through his paces
+with all the tricks I taught him. He's getting too logy, and has to be
+told three times before he'll do a blessed thing. But about this wretched
+matter, Paul--you won't say anything to your folks, will you?"
+
+"Not for the world. It's your secret, and I'd never leak a word without
+your permission. But I must be off now. Leave things just as you always
+have done; and don't shut or lock the door here any more than before.
+I've got to do some studying over this Boy Scout affair when I get
+back. Whitson loaned me some pamphlets, but I didn't have time to read
+them through."
+
+Jack accompanied his friend down to the front door. Here Karl, having
+heard them descending the stairs, joined them; and so far as Paul could
+see there was no change in the boy's manner. If he had done wrong he must
+be clever enough to hide the guilt that lay in his heart, and put on a
+bold face.
+
+"Remember!" was all Paul said as he squeezed Jack's quivering hand,
+before jumping down the steps, boy fashion.
+
+It was enough to encourage the sorely distressed lad, for he had the
+greatest faith in Paul Morrison, the doctor's son, that any boy could
+ever place in a comrade; nor had the other ever failed to equal his
+expectations.
+
+"I really believe Paul will do it," he was muttering to himself as he
+slowly went upstairs again to the den, with its decorations of college
+flags, and pictures of camping, canoeing, outdoor sports such as baseball
+and football struggles, and kindred things so dear to the heart of almost
+every growing lad; "yes, I believe he will if anybody can. But I wish he
+had let me hide the rest of them away. It seems like putting temptation
+in the way of a weak brother. But he told me I wasn't even to believe
+Karl took the coins, and _I won't_!"
+
+Nevertheless, Jack Stormways must have passed a miserable night; for the
+anxious eyes of his mother noticed his distressed looks when he came down
+to breakfast on the following morning.
+
+"You don't look well, son," she observed, as she passed her cool hand
+across his fevered brow; "I think you ought to step in and see Doctor
+Morrison some time this morning, and let him give you something."
+
+"All right, mother; but it's only a little headache," he protested, for
+like all boys he disliked the thought of being considered sick.
+
+Her eyes turned solicitously toward him many times during the meal,
+for she saw that Jack was unusually dull, and took little part in the
+conversation.
+
+But it seemed that Karl made up for his brother's lack of energy, for he
+was more than ordinarily inclined to be merry, and told numerous jokes he
+had heard from his fellows in the boys' club he had joined.
+
+Jack mentioned that they were about to organize a Boy Scout patrol; and
+very naturally his mother looked a bit serious at this news, until he
+explained some of the really excellent points connected with such an
+association; when her face cleared at once.
+
+"If that is what the movement means then the sooner a patrol is organized
+in Stanhope the better. There are a lot of boys who would be vastly
+benefitted by such uplifting resolutions," she declared, with some show
+of enthusiasm.
+
+"Yes, mother, you are right," said Mr. Stormways, just then. "Things have
+been going from bad to worse in our town of late, and the fathers are
+beginning to wonder where it will end. Only yesterday I met old Peleg
+Growdy. You remember the old fellow, for we stopped at his place when we
+were out riding, and had a drink at his well."
+
+"Yes, and a most singular old man he was. I really couldn't say that I
+was much impressed with his looks or conversation," replied the lady, as
+she poured another cup of coffee for her husband.
+
+"All very true; but he minds his own business if let alone; and after all
+I find that he is a well educated man, up in most questions of the day.
+But the boys, or some of them at least, have for a long time considered
+old Peleg a fit subject for practical jokes. They change the lines on his
+team, given half a chance, and annoy him in every way possible. Really, I
+don't wonder he is bitter about it."
+
+"But you had something in mind, father, when you said that you met him?"
+
+Mr. Stormways looked at Jack.
+
+"That is true, my son; and do you know, the first thought that came to me
+was one of pleasure to feel absolutely sure no boy of mine would disgrace
+himself in plaguing an old man who had never harmed him."
+
+Jack felt a glow in the region of his heart at this show of confidence;
+and resolved that more than ever would he merit it; but somehow he could
+not help looking out of the tail of his eye toward Karl, to find that the
+color had mounted to his forehead, and that he seemed embarrassed.
+
+Was he thinking just then of the coins; or did he have some knowledge of
+the practical joke that had been played on old Peleg Growdy?
+
+"Now, tell us what it was, Alan," said Mrs. Stormways, encouragingly.
+
+"Well, perhaps in one way it may have been looked upon as something
+humorous, but it annoyed the old man very much. Last Sunday he went out
+to let his pigs run loose in the lot, as is his habit. When he pulled
+the rope that opened the little door in the back of the pen, he was
+astonished to see the queerest lot of porkers dash away that human eyes
+had ever beheld."
+
+Karl was snickering by now, showing that he must have some knowledge of
+what was to come.
+
+"No two pigs looked alike. The boys had crept into the pen in the night,
+with a lantern, and some pots of paint taken from Mr. Rabow's shop, and
+painted the whole drove in every color imaginable. One, he said, looked
+like the American flag. Another had four legs of different hues; a third
+was striped yellow and green, and so it went. Imagine the old man's
+amazement as he saw them kicking up their legs, and tearing around like
+mad; for the sun had reached the turpentine in the paint, and made it
+burn tremendously."
+
+Karl gave a shout, and even Mrs. Stormways could not repress a smile,
+though she felt that it was wrong.
+
+"I heard about it from one of the boys, father; I don't want to tell his
+name, you see, because it might get him into a scrape," said Karl, as he
+managed to get his breath again.
+
+Jack breathed easier, since he knew now that his brother had not been
+concerned in the adventure; still, there was that other thing--but he had
+promised Paul not to believe, or even suspect, anything so early in the
+game.
+
+"I admit that it does seem ludicrous; and no doubt if I had been there I
+must have been strongly tempted to laugh at the comical spectacle those
+six pigs must have presented. But it is the spirit of the thing that
+looks so bad. Growdy never harmed a boy in his life, he says, and only
+wants to be let alone; but they went out of their way to play a malicious
+trick on the old man. It took him the whole of Sunday to scrape that
+paint off the hides of his pigs; which I consider a pretty hard
+proposition. And I repeat what I said before, that I'm pleased to know
+a son of mine would not be guilty of so mean a trick."
+
+Karl left the table just then, and his brother fancied that he looked a
+bit confused, as though his conscience were troubling him, but then Jack
+hoped he might be mistaken.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV
+
+THE FIRST SCOUT LEADER
+
+
+Paul had said that he would be away the greater part of the day, his
+father having asked him to go to the city on an important errand.
+
+Consequently there was no opportunity for the two chums to confer upon
+any of the matters that were interesting then.
+
+But all the boys had agreed to meet at the house of Nuthin' that evening,
+to plunge deeper into the subject of organizing at least one scout patrol
+in Stanhope.
+
+As usual Paul called for Jack, and as the latter's parents knew what was
+on tap, there was no opposition shown to his going out.
+
+"Has anything happened to-day?" whispered the visitor, as he was joined
+by Jack in the hall.
+
+"Yes, I was out a lot with the fellows, and doing some chores around; but
+I mustered up enough courage just before supper to go upstairs," replied
+the other, his voice giving plain warning as to what was to follow, for
+it showed the strain.
+
+"And counted the coins again, perhaps to find them short, eh, Jack?"
+
+"Well, you said there were eight, and now I can count only six. Why, it's
+getting to be a regular clock-like piece of business. And after what
+father said this morning, too."
+
+"What did he say?" asked Paul.
+
+"Come along. I'll tell you while we're on our way," and Jack gave a
+nervous look over his shoulder, as though afraid lest his brother pop
+out on them unawares.
+
+As they walked slowly along the road he spoke in the affectionate manner
+in which Mr. Stormways had declared his utmost faith in the honesty and
+integrity of his two boys.
+
+"But you're not sure that Karl has anything to do with the disappearing
+coins. Other boys may have been up there to-day?" suggested his friend,
+quickly.
+
+"I asked mother, and she said she didn't remember that any one had come
+to see me. No, the more I think about it the worse I feel. But I guess
+you didn't have any time to see old Doc. Thomes before you went to the
+city, did you?"
+
+"That's just what I did, dropped into his shop, told him I was going down
+to New York on business for dad, and asked if I could do anything for
+him."
+
+"Oh! how bright of you, Paul. And what did he say to that?"
+
+"It seemed to quite tickle the old chap. He said he had a little package
+he wanted to send in to a dealer on Fourteenth Street, and would be glad
+if I took it to him, instead of his sending it by express."
+
+"A package, Paul; did he say what it contained?" demanded the other,
+almost holding his breath with sudden alarm.
+
+"Yes, a lot of old coins he had been buying lately. Now, hold your
+horses, Jack, my boy. He hadn't made it up yet, and I helped him do it.
+There wasn't one of the same kind yours are. He bought the collection of
+Chinese and Japanese coins old Captain Crocker owned. His widow had no
+use for them, and needed the money."
+
+"Oh, you gave me a scare, Paul; but I'm glad you saw them, for I'd always
+imagine mine must have been in the lot; not that I care a bit for the old
+things now; but it was the thought, you know, the terrible suspicion."
+
+"Yes, and while about it I managed to see every old coin Doc. has in his
+shop, for he was pleased to let me root around. And Jack, not a single
+one of your missing pieces has he got, depend on it."
+
+"Oh! well," remarked Jack, arousing himself, "let's try and forget my
+troubles for a while. Unless I get it off my mind I'll lie awake again,
+and then your father, the doctor, will give me some medicine that tastes
+even worse than what he did to-day. Did you get that manual you sent for,
+Paul?" and the speaker resolutely shut his teeth hard together as if
+determined to keep his mind off the harassing subject.
+
+"Yes, it's in my pocket, and seems to be full of meat, too. I haven't had
+much chance to soak it in, but what I did read interested me a whole
+lot," returned the doctor's son.
+
+"Well, I thought of a friend I had over in Manchester, and this afternoon
+I took my wheel and jumped down there, crossing by the bridge. Just as I
+hoped, Landy is a member of the troop there, and he gladly told me all he
+knew about the business. I'm more than ever tickled at the idea of our
+having a branch up here, to compete with the neighboring towns. He told
+me something more that we might consider, too."
+
+"What was that, Jack?"
+
+"You remember Mr. Silas Westervelt, the Quaker of Manchester?"
+
+"Sure. I've often talked with him, and my father is their family doctor,"
+replied Paul, readily enough.
+
+"It seems that he's become interested in this scout movement, which
+he endorses through and through. The result is that he has offered a
+beautiful banner to the organization that can show the highest degree of
+efficiency, and the greatest number of merit marks by Thanksgiving day.
+It's being made now, down in the city."
+
+"That counts us in, then, for we'll have plenty of time to get busy
+before the day of turkey rolls around, eh, Jack?"
+
+"Oh! we'll be in the contest all right, even if we are counted in the
+'also ran' class. These other fellows have been camping this summer, and
+must be up in many of the things that count. But then, they haven't got
+Paul Morrison at the head as scout leader, and that means everything in
+our favor," declared Jack, warmly.
+
+"Please cut that out after this. It's true that I've always been deeply
+interested in many things connected with life in the woods; but you see
+that's only one part of a good scout's credit marks. In fact, there's
+hardly one thing in all the trades and professions that is omitted from
+the list. Only he must _excel_ in all he undertakes. And soon we will
+have to find a young man over twenty-one who will act as our scout
+master."
+
+"Hold up, there's Bobolink hurrying to catch us; and he acts as if he
+might be the bearer of important news," remarked Jack, who had heard a
+hail from the rear, and turned his head to see a flitting form.
+
+The other came up, panting heavily.
+
+"Say, you fellows must have the seven league boots, the way you get over
+ground. And just after I've gone and made away with a monstrous supper,
+too," he managed to say, between gasps. "Let me get my breath, and I've
+got something to tell you."
+
+"Is it about Ted Slavin and his cronies?" asked Paul, suspiciously.
+
+"Hit it the first shot," returned Bobolink; "who told you?"
+
+"Why, I haven't heard a word; only I thought that if there was anything
+going on, Ted would be apt to have a finger in the pie," returned the
+other, grimly.
+
+"Well, he has, all right, as usual. Anyhow his mouthpiece, Ward Kenwood,
+has, and it's the same thing. I was taking something in to the dominie at
+our church (my mother is at the head of a committee, you know) when he
+asked me if I was going to join the new Boy Scout patrol that was being
+organized in Stanhope."
+
+"Whew, but those fellows don't believe in letting the grass grow under
+their feet, do they? Never thought a thing about it till they heard us
+talking matters over; and here they're getting all the credit for being
+first in the field," and Jack shrugged his shoulders ruefully as he
+spoke.
+
+"Didn't I say we'd have to get up early in the morning if we hoped to
+keep from taking their dust? No matter what else you can say about them,
+Ted and his crowd are alive, and wide-awake fellows all the time,"
+returned Paul.
+
+"Well, the minister was some surprised when I told him all about it. He
+said he was delighted, and I guess he meant it too. The more patrols the
+better for the community, he said. And he seemed to know all about the
+meaning of the thing, for he showed me several books along the subject,
+that he promised to lend us."
+
+"Bully for him!" cried Jack, with perhaps more energy than reverence;
+but had the genial old man heard the words he would have felt highly
+complimented, knowing that whoever succeeds in getting the approval of
+live, wide-awake boys must consider himself fortunate indeed.
+
+"There's Nuthin's house," remarked Bobolink, just then.
+
+"And Tom Bates going in, with the Carberry Twins. I hope we can enroll
+a dozen good fellows for a start. The rest will flock over after a bit,
+when they get to know what fine times we expect to have," remarked Paul.
+
+They found that there were just a dozen present, counting A. Cypher, who
+as host was much in evidence. Besides Tom Bates, the new boys were Philip
+Towns, Jud Elderkin, Joe Clausin and Andy Flinn; the latter of Irish
+parentage, but well liked, even though his widowed mother had to take
+in washing to provide food for the numerous mouths dependent on her.
+
+Andy was a particularly bright boy, and many declared that he had a
+future before him, if only he kept away from the one curse of his
+father's life, rum. But as he hated the very word drink, there seemed to
+be little danger that he would be apt to follow in the footsteps of the
+brilliant man who had fallen so early in life, and left a family nearly
+destitute.
+
+"Meeting please come to order," called Paul, after he had been pushed
+into a chair to serve as temporary chairman.
+
+Soon the boys began to go into the details of the projected troop, its
+meaning, what good it might be expected to accomplish, and everything
+connected with the Boy Scout organization.
+
+Paul read page after page from the book he had brought, while the others,
+including the parents of A. Cypher, listened, and applauded at times, as
+some particularly fine point happened to strike them.
+
+"That ought to do for the present," said Paul, finally, as he closed the
+book and beamed upon his mates; "and now, what do you think, fellows?"
+
+"I'm just wild to get started, and more so than ever after hearing all
+about the hundreds of fine things scouts can do. I'm a crank on making
+fires, and I guess I'd qualify right easy for the championship in that
+tournament!" exclaimed William Carberry, his face aglow.
+
+"Yes, and I remember the time he nearly burned our house down, trying to
+start a blaze without a match. He got the fire all right; but there was a
+lively time around there, until the bucket brigade arrived, and slushed
+things down. Oh! you can believe William; he's some on the fire racket,"
+remarked the other Twin, at which there was a roar from those present.
+
+"I move that we write out just what we intend to do, and that all the
+fellows in the room sign it as charter members. Then we'll try to double
+our dozen by a week, and rush things along. We already have enough for
+the first patrol and half a second. If we expect to compete with those
+other troops in the struggle for supremacy we've got to be awake and
+doing."
+
+"You never said truer words, Paul. What sort of a binding agreement had
+we ought to get up?" asked Bobolink, pretending that it was Tom Bates who
+spoke; for really the boy had a wonderful gift of ventriloquism, and
+often amused himself, and his friends as well, by sending his voice into
+strange places, to the wonder of those who were not aware of his tricks.
+
+"I thought that over, and wrote out what I believed would cover the
+ground. If you listen now, I'll read it to you," returned the chairman.
+
+"Hear! hear ye! All keep silent while our honored chairman reads the
+document to which we expect to subscribe our names and seals!" called
+William, pompously.
+
+What Paul had written was simply that those whose names were found below
+had united themselves together with the idea of forming a troop that
+could be connected with the regular Boys Scout organization as
+incorporated.
+
+Then every boy present wrote his name beneath the agreement, after which
+they went into executive session, the parents of A. Cypher being kindly
+but firmly requested to retire from the room, while the election of
+officers proceeded, and other necessary steps were taken to perfect the
+first patrol.
+
+So the first patrol of Stanhope Troop was organized, and consisted of the
+eight originators of the scheme. It was decided to call this the Red Fox
+patrol. As fast as others were arranged for they could take on such names
+as Gray Fox, White Fox and even Black Fox.
+
+Later on they hoped to secure a scout master, but just now with Paul and
+Wallace brimming over with woods' lore, the lack of such an officer would
+not bother them.
+
+The meeting ended in Paul being placed in the honored position of scout
+leader, with the second position being thrust on Jack Stormways, though
+he declared that Wallace Carberry was far better qualified to fill it
+than he ever could be.
+
+But Paul was satisfied to have it so. Jack was his favorite chum; and he
+would be thrown much in his company. Besides, the desire to study up the
+rules, and perfect himself in all that an assistant scout master should
+know, might for a time at least take Jack's thoughts away from the
+subject of his trouble at home.
+
+Before the boys left they were summoned to the dining room, where
+refreshments were placed before them; and when the meeting did finally
+break up every fellow felt deep down in his heart that an important step
+had been taken toward raising the standard of living among the rising
+generation of Stanhope.
+
+Finally, as the hour had grown fairly late it was suggested that they
+leave in a body, since all military organizations did this.
+
+"And," continued the one who had put this idea forward, "while we have
+nothing to do with the army itself, we expect to be governed by certain
+military rules. What say, fellows?"
+
+"Fall in! fall in!"
+
+Out of the door they marched, and down the steps, two by two; Bluff
+Shipley, who was paired with Nuthin', being the lone straggler in the
+rear, since his mate remained at home.
+
+If he experienced the slightest sense of dejection at being compelled to
+walk without a side partner, it was of very brief duration.
+
+Outside it was very dark, and this condition seemed more or less
+heightened by the fact that the eyes of the young scouts had become
+accustomed to the glow of the rooms they had just left.
+
+Consequently there was more or less chance of some one tripping on the
+steps, and pulling others down with him.
+
+"'Ware the fourth step; it's shaky and may throw you, boys!" sang out
+Nuthin'.
+
+Hardly had he spoken than the first pair executed a beautiful forward
+bow, and went down in a heap from the lower step.
+
+"Look out there! A rope!"
+
+Paul had just barely time to give utterance to this warning when the next
+pair found the obstruction for themselves, and came plunging down on top
+of those already landed.
+
+Two more were close behind, so nearly upon the heels of the second pair
+that it was really impossible for them to avoid following in their wake.
+Thus there were by this time six struggling figures at the foot of the
+steps, while the balance of the patrol huddled just above, looking with
+amazement at the dimly seen spectacle.
+
+From somewhere near by, possibly the shelter of some bushes, came gurgles
+of boyish laughter, and jeering words in assumed voices.
+
+No need to tell Paul and his friends to whose kind attention they owed
+this unexpected downfall. Ted Slavin and his backers had not been idle
+while the new patrol was being organized in the home of Nuthin'. They had
+fastened a stout rope across the lower step, and succeeded in tripping
+half of their rivals.
+
+Paul managed to scramble to his feet, hardly knowing whether to laugh, or
+get angry at this practical joke on the part of the opposition.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V
+
+CHECKING A COWARD
+
+
+"It's that Slavin crowd!" exclaimed Jack, as he gained his feet.
+
+"Let's capture some of them, then!" shouted William, always ready for
+battle, as was also Bluff Shipley, whose hands were never bothered with
+impediments as was his speech.
+
+A rush was made for the bushes, and retreating footsteps announced the
+hasty departure of the enemy.
+
+None of the new scouts seemed to care about following very far. They knew
+Ted of old, and feared lest they be drawn into a trap, so that their last
+condition would be really worse than the first.
+
+"No damage done, after all," remarked Paul, as he brushed off his
+clothes; while the others gathered around, and Nuthin' came down to
+secure the treacherous rope.
+
+"Barked my shins some, now; and sooner or later I've just got to take it
+out of that crowd!" muttered William, limping around, and shaking his
+head.
+
+"Better do it soon, then," observed Bobolink, "for after you've taken
+the oath of allegiance to the scouts you dassent tackle a feller without
+losing marks."
+
+"H'm! is that so?" grunted the injured member, regretfully; for to be
+deprived of the boon of fighting would be taking some of the joys of life
+away from the pugnacious Carberry twin.
+
+"Fall in again, boys!" said Paul, cheerily.
+
+"Not the same way, I hope, captain!" ventured Bobolink; at which there
+was a laugh, and the incident seemed closed.
+
+The boys had no doubt but that their rivals must have been observing much
+that went on in the lighted rooms, possibly also trying to catch what was
+being said.
+
+"What of it?" demanded Paul, when some one suggested this; "if they heard
+what I read out of that manual so much the better. Let them subscribe to
+those rules, and life will be worth living alongside Ted and his
+cronies."
+
+"But you see they just can't!" declared Bobolink, quickly.
+
+"Which is to say they won't. All right. Once we get out troop formed,
+public sentiment will be on our side. If they try to worry us the good
+people of Stanhope, backed by the Women's Club, will see to it that the
+nuisance is stopped. Isn't that so, Paul?" remarked Jack, with conviction
+in his voice.
+
+"Them's my sentiments, as some character in fiction used to remark. We
+can afford to laugh at all these little plans to annoy us. Of course, if
+they go too far, why we may have to turn and do something ourselves,"
+said Paul, seriously.
+
+"Bully! Hasten the time!" cried William, ceasing to limp for the moment
+in his new delight.
+
+"Oh! but Paul doesn't mean a regular give and take fight. If we pitch in
+at all, I'm afraid it'll have to be doling out punishment in the way the
+good dad does when he plies the stick and says it hurts him worse than it
+does the bad kid," declared Bobolink; at which there was a roar.
+
+On the following day there was more or less skirmishing about town by
+various eager lads, seeking recruits for the rival troops.
+
+Paul was as busy as a beaver, and at several points conferred with some
+of his followers. He had sent for more manuals, besides a price list of
+uniforms, and other equipments necessary to the complete organization of
+the Fox Patrol and Stanhope Troop No. 1.
+
+Leading citizens began to take an interest in the movement, as they
+grew to understand its true significance. Stanhope seemed to be fairly
+sizzling with a new and novel energy. Even the meeting of the Women's
+Club that afternoon was given up partly to a discussion of the merits of
+the Boy Scout wave then sweeping over the land; and ladies who had been
+decidedly averse to such a thing found their eyes opened to its
+beneficial accompaniments.
+
+As was to be expected, the recruiting was not confined to Paul and his
+chums. Ted Slavin and Ward Kenwood were just as vigorously employed; and
+several times in the course of the day the rivals ran across each other
+while engaged in thus drumming up new subjects for initiation.
+
+On such occasions there was apt to be something in the way of verbal
+fireworks passing between the opposing scouts. Ted Slavin seldom knew how
+to bridle that tongue of his; and Ward Kenwood seemed to be in a nasty
+humor himself.
+
+To tell the truth there had long been a sort of rivalry between Paul and
+Ward over the smiles of pretty Arline Blair; and latterly the high school
+girl seemed to be giving young Morrison more than his share of her
+company.
+
+That afternoon about four o'clock, as Paul and two of his chums were
+passing along one of the side streets of the town they came upon a scene
+that caused a sudden halt.
+
+The blustering voice of Ted Slavin was what first drew their attention;
+and it seemed to come from around the next corner. Then followed a
+quavering voice, pleading in its tone.
+
+Paul looked at his friends, and his brow darkened.
+
+"It's old Mother Martha, the market woman who sells things in her little
+stall around here. And some of those mean skunks are plaguing her, like
+they often do, she tells me, stealing her apples, and laughing at her,
+because she's lame with the rheumatism, and can't chase after 'em!" said
+William, who happened to be one of the trio brought to a halt so
+suddenly.
+
+"Come on, then; we can't stand that!" exclaimed Paul.
+
+The boys hurriedly turned the corner, to find that what William had
+suggested seemed to be the actual truth.
+
+Ted and a follower were hovering near the poor old woman. The fact that
+Ted was contentedly munching a red apple told that he had already made
+his hawk-like descent on the stand of the market woman, and was now
+seeking to distract her attention so that his companion might also swoop
+down to seize a prize, when they would go off, laughing uproarously, as
+though they considered it a huge joke.
+
+Paul was on the bully in a flash, and almost before Ted knew of his
+presence he had torn the apple from his grasp and hurled it far away.
+
+"Get out of this, you coward!" exclaimed the scout leader of the new
+patrol, as he gave Ted Slavin a push; "I'm going to speak to the chief of
+police about the way you rob this good woman, and see if he won't stop
+it. You ought to be ashamed of yourselves, both of you!"
+
+William and Bluff were for jumping at the two offenders, and giving them
+a lesson then and there; but with both arms Paul held his fire-eaters
+back.
+
+"Let 'em come on, if they want to mix up with us. We can take care of
+two, and think it a picnic. P'raps even three wouldn't be too much, if so
+be you want to try it on, Paul Morrison. Huh! there comes another bunch
+of your sissies. Seven against two might make it too interestin', so we'd
+better skip out, Scissors. But you just wait, that's all. I don't forget
+you laid a hand on me; and some time I'm going to take it out."
+
+"Oh! suit yourself, Ted," answered the other, promptly. "I'm ready to
+have a go at you when you're ready, if you force me to the wall. I'm not
+a fighter, but when I see a couple of rowdies treating a poor old woman
+like you did, it makes me see red."
+
+With derisive jeers the pair faded away as several boys came running to
+the spot, having seen the group, and guessing from the presence of the
+two rival leaders that there must be something doing.
+
+Their indignation was boundless when they learned what new meanness the
+coming of Paul and his two chums had interrupted.
+
+It required considerable persuasion on the part of the scout leader to
+prevent an immediate chase of the culprits.
+
+"Let them go this time," said Paul, impressively; "but I'm going to see
+what can be done to put a stop to this rowdyism. It gives the boys of
+Stanhope a bad name all around. I told Ted I'd speak to Chief Billings
+about it."
+
+"You won't get any too much satisfaction there," remarked wise Nuthin';
+"because, you see the Chief owes his position to the political influence
+of Mr. Kenwood; and as Ward runs with Ted he won't dare do anything for
+fear of offending the head of the party. We've just _got_ to find a way
+ourselves to change things."
+
+"Well, I'll ask my father about it. Perhaps he can suggest a plan. He
+used to be a boy himself once, and never forgets it either," was Paul's
+conclusion, as they each bought an apple from the old woman to make her
+forget her recent trouble, and then walked away, followed by her earnest
+thanks.
+
+"Say, but time just crawls along," observed William, dolefully; "because,
+you see, I'm dying to get to work and win some of them merits you told us
+about. Just set me the stunt of making water boil over a fire I have to
+kindle, and I'll do it in three shakes of a lamb's tail. The rest of you
+will be left hull down. And then there's lots of other jobs that look
+good to me. Let's get a move on, and start the ball rolling. When's the
+next meeting, Paul?"
+
+"To-night, and once more at the barn where we were first. This time
+I figure on having nearly twenty present, and that will make things
+interesting."
+
+"Same hour as before--eight o'clock?" asked Bobolink.
+
+"Yes. And if any of you feel that you are qualified to take the
+examination for the first degree, so as to become real tenderfeet in the
+Scouts, why, I'll be in trim to put you through your sprouts," announced
+the leader.
+
+"That hits me," declared William; "for I've been studying to beat the
+band, and believe I'll pass muster with flying colors. Me for the
+tenderfoot class!"
+
+"And I've just used up a whole ball of twine tying all those measly
+knots," declared Nuthin'; after which his face brightened when he added:
+"but I can do every one just like an old jack tar. My dad was once a
+sailor you know, and that's where I've got the bulge on the rest of you.
+So-long, boys; I'm going home to try again."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI
+
+A STRANGE SUGGESTION
+
+
+"Who goes there?"
+
+"A scout of the Red Fox Patrol!"
+
+"Advance scout, and give the countersign!"
+
+A figure came shuffling forward, bent over, and whispered a word in the
+ear of the sentinel at the door of the old tobacco barn.
+
+"Correct! Pass in, scout!" said the one on guard, solemnly.
+
+But William chose to loiter by the door, and watch the gathering of the
+clans, for the boys arrived rapidly after that, usually in pairs.
+
+"Where's the other twin?" asked Paul, seeing William alone.
+
+"Unavoidably detained, Captain. May be on deck later. Here comes another
+bunch," and William stepped aside to allow the sentry to halt Andy Flinn,
+who had arrived in company with Jud Elderkin, the latter as tall and thin
+as the former was fat and pudgy.
+
+"Pass along, gentlemen," sang out William, after the pair had
+successfully stood the test; "the animals went in two by two; the
+elephant and the kangaroo!" and as usual there was a laugh at this
+sally, which applied so aptly to the couple just entering.
+
+"All here now, Paul," announced Jack Stormways, counting noses in the
+light of half a dozen lanterns provided by Mr. Shipley, the owner of the
+barn.
+
+For an hour routine business was transacted.
+
+There were just twenty-one names on the roll now, and all present saving
+two, Wallace Carberry and another. It was decided to organize two patrols
+at once, the first to be under the charge of Paul as scout leader, while
+Jud Elderkin took the Gray Fox crowd.
+
+The more the assembled lads learned concerning the duties and sports of
+the Boy Scouts, the greater became their enthusiasm. As the evening
+progressed they were fairly bubbling over with excitement, and it began
+to look as though the success of the new movement were already assured.
+
+But Paul knew that it must be a constant fight between the natural
+rough-and-ready, give-and-take spirit which almost every boy inherits
+from his ancestors, and the new idea that would have him a hero without
+being a bully or a brawler.
+
+And he was not surprised when, later on, just before they thought of
+breaking up the meeting, William got the floor on the question of a
+personal privilege, and threw a bombshell into the camp.
+
+"I'm going to ask a favor of you fellows," he said; "and you can help me
+break even with that old rooster as well as have some fun. D'ye think
+you can stand the racket?"
+
+The others crowded around, for they knew very well that when William had
+anything to propose it usually meant some frolic. But Paul noticed to his
+surprise that the joker seemed worked up far more than he could ever
+remember seeing him before, and he scented trouble ahead.
+
+"Who is it this time, William? Tell us about it, old fellow! Of course
+we're bound to stand by you through thick and thin. That's one of the
+first duties of a scout, you know. Speak up, and give us a tip!"
+
+It was Jud Elderkin who said this; but that he voiced the sentiments
+of pretty much the entire group could be judged from the chorus of
+exclamations that greeted his aggressive speech.
+
+"It's that old grumpy miser, Peleg Growdy," said the orator, waving his
+hands to emphasize his words. "He never had any use for boys, you know,
+and often says he wonders why the pests were ever born. I don't remember
+doing him any mean thing in my life, but he's got it in for the whole
+creation of boys, I expect."
+
+"What did he do to you?"
+
+"Yes, tell us, William. We'll stand by you, never fear."
+
+"He needs a good lesson, the old skinflint. Tell us what happened!"
+
+William grinned, for he saw that he had already captured the hearts
+of his comrades, and had small need to fear they would let him seek
+satisfaction alone.
+
+Jack Stormways was as deeply interested in the outcome as his chum Paul.
+
+He remembered all his father had said at the breakfast table on the
+preceding day, in connection with this same man Growdy.
+
+William was proceeding to thrill his hearers some more. To hear him talk
+one might imagine his father was a celebrated lawyer instead of the town
+blacksmith, for William had a smooth tongue.
+
+"I guess all of you know by this time what some fellers did to Growdy's
+pigs last Saturday night, painting 'em to beat the band? It's the talk
+of the town, and lots of folks says that it serves the old crusty just
+right. But I was tucked away in my little bed alongside t'other twin that
+night, as snug as two bugs in a rug; and consequently had my little
+_alibi_ ready to prove I wasn't in the bunch that paid him that sly
+visit."
+
+"Oh! we all know who did it, never fear!" cried Joe Clausin.
+
+"He spells his name T-e-d!" echoed Bobolink.
+
+"All right. Because some bad boys played that joke on old Growdy he seems
+to have it in for every mother's son in Stanhope. I met him on the road
+this afternoon when I was out with a light wagon after some feed. He was
+on the way to town to deliver a big load of truck. Everybody's entitled
+to half the road; ain't that the law, fellers?"
+
+"Sure it is, William; but that mean man wouldn't budge for you, hey?"
+said Jud.
+
+"Not for an inch. Just hauled up there taking two-thirds of the road, and
+started to light his pipe. I was in a hurry to get along, and thought
+I could just squeeze by; but I made a mistake, and my wagon got upset in
+the ditch. He went on, grinning at my trouble, and never offering to
+raise a hand to help me out."
+
+Exclamations of indignation arose on all sides.
+
+"He needs another lesson, boys!"
+
+"Say the word, William, and we're with you. Guess I might think up a few
+ways for you to get even with the old skinflint!"
+
+Paul saw that they were rapidly being swayed by their feelings of natural
+resentment. He had no particular reason for liking Peleg Growdy any more
+than the balance of the group; but the lesson of returning good for evil
+had taken full possession of his soul.
+
+Once he would have been only too ready to join in with his chums in
+redressing what seemed to be a positive wrong; but somehow it was
+different now.
+
+Before he could speak, however, Jack had elbowed his way into the midst
+of the excited lads, his face full of determination.
+
+"Wait a bit, you fellows, before you decide what you're going to do.
+I want to tell you something that ought to interest you."
+
+"All right, Jack; speak up. Any objection to joining in with us and
+having a little fun while we help a brother even up his score?" demanded
+a voice.
+
+Then Jack repeated as well as he was able the conversation that had taken
+place at the breakfast table in his house. He went even further than
+this, for it happened that he knew something about the old man's past.
+
+"Peleg Growdy is a crabbed old chap, I admit; but perhaps you wouldn't
+blame him so much if you knew the trouble he has had."
+
+"What was that?" asked one boy.
+
+"His wife and two children were burned to death when his house caught
+fire many years ago. Another child grew up to be a man, and committed
+some crime that made him run away. His last one, a daughter, was killed
+in a railroad wreck. Ever since then the old man shuns people, and just
+works as if he never wanted to know a living soul."
+
+"That's tough, for a fact!" admitted one boy, slowly.
+
+"But it don't excuse him for hating all boys. What business did he have
+sitting there and taking two-thirds of the road, to let William upset in
+the ditch trying to pass him?" demanded Jud, still rebelling.
+
+"Oh! well, that's a rule of the road that isn't always carried out. For
+instance, the loaded vehicle is generally given _more_ than its half; and
+William admits he was going light, while the old man carried a heavy
+load," said Jack.
+
+"Yes, that's so," grunted William, unable to hold out against such logic.
+
+"And perhaps, if he told the actual truth, William would admit that there
+was room enough for him to pass, if he had been a little more careful!"
+
+"Sure; but I was in a hurry, you understand; and didn't see that the edge
+of the ditch was crumbly. But he laughed, I tell you, and that riled me!"
+
+"And now you want to bring a dozen and more of your friends down on his
+place to commit some prank that will make him dislike boys more than
+ever. It's all wrong, I tell you, fellows, and for one I refuse to lend
+a hand," and Jack folded his arms as though his mind were made up once
+and for all.
+
+Paul saw that they were very near a division that might be fatal to the
+future good of the cause. He wondered whether he could swing the crowd
+to the other side, like the pendulum of a clock. It would take
+considerable eloquence, as well as all his powers of leadership to
+accomplish it; but the crisis was upon them, and he would be false to
+himself if he did not meet the issue squarely.
+
+"Will you listen to me, fellows?" he said, quietly, stepping forward to
+occupy the place just vacated by Jack, and managing to whisper to the
+other in passing: "back me up for all you're worth, and we may win the
+day!"
+
+"Of course we will! You're the scout leader, Paul, and when you hatch up
+any game it's sure to be worth the powder. Let her go!" came from Jud,
+who seemed to be a sort of ringleader in this little rebellion in the
+camp.
+
+"All right, boys. I'm going to make a proposition that will take your
+breath away; but I have strong hopes that after what you've listened to
+from that manual to-night, you'll be ready to back me up," continued
+Paul.
+
+"We believe in you, Paul. You never fooled us yet; and you never will.
+What's your queer game?" asked Bobolink, ready to swing over already,
+such was his faith in the one they had elected their leader.
+
+The boys crowded around Paul, more than eager to hear what his proposal
+might turn out to be; for novelty always appeals to the average lad.
+
+"All of you know that old Peleg keeps his dooryard in a horrible
+condition. Why, my mother says she doesn't believe it has been cleaned
+up in years; and he hardly ever takes the trouble to even put his wagons
+and that old buggy in the shed. It's a disgrace to the town to have him
+so near. I've heard that the women talked about asking him to do
+something to make it look cleaner."
+
+"He's a stubborn old man, and can't be driven, my dad says," remarked
+Jud.
+
+"Now here's what I'm going to propose. You know he's pretty deaf, and
+can't hear much that goes on. He used to have a savage dog, but it died
+a couple of weeks ago, and since then he's been trying to get another,
+but so far without success. Get that?"
+
+"Yes, but go on, Paul," demanded Bobolink.
+
+"Let's go over to Peleg's in a body," continued the scout leader; "and
+while he sleeps clean up that dooryard of his so that in the morning
+he'll just rub his eyes and begin to think the fairies have paid him
+a visit in the night. And when he learns who did it perhaps he may feel
+something like you did, William. Don't you see, _it'll be rubbing it in
+good and hard_!"
+
+Paul waited to see how his suggestion took.
+
+The boys stared at each other in amazement. It is doubtful whether a
+parcel of wide-awake lads ever before had such a novel proposition made
+to them. And perhaps it was the sensational character of the appeal that
+stirred them more than any desire to return good for evil.
+
+"Count me in that job, Paul," said Jack positively.
+
+He had timed his interruption with exceeding cleverness. Boys are like
+sheep, and given a bell wether they will follow blindly where the leader
+goes.
+
+"Me too!" cried Bobolink, quickly.
+
+"Ditto! I'm for the game just as Paul says!" exclaimed Nuthin'.
+
+And every one in the crowd followed suit, laughing at the idea of their
+turning the tables on the old farmer in such an unheard-of fashion;
+though several doubtless secretly scoffed at the project, and only agreed
+because it seemed to be a necessary evil if they wanted to become Boy
+Scouts.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII
+
+THE TRAP THAT PELEG SET
+
+
+"There's Growdy's shack and barns!"
+
+"Don't seem to be anything stirring, fellows!"
+
+"Look out for a trap. Once bitten, twice shy. Perhaps he's just laying
+for some fellers to come along, and play some more paintin' job trick.
+I heard that he said he would find some way to stop the nuisance!"
+
+This from "Red" Betts, who was known as a cautious chap, and able to
+vanish at the first sign of danger better than any fellow in town.
+
+"Suppose we hold up here, and send out scouts to see how the land lies?
+That's the military way of doing it," ventured Bobolink.
+
+"A good idea, and I appoint you, Bobolink, with Jud Elderkin, to carry
+out the little business," remarked Paul, in a low tone.
+
+"Trot along, you chaps; the rest of us will bunk right here alongside
+the road and wait till you report," and suiting the action to his words
+William dropped in his tracks.
+
+A brief time elapsed, and then the pair of spies returned.
+
+"Not a single light in the house, and the coast clear, fellows; so come
+on!" and Jud waved his long arms as though enjoying his brief assumption
+of authority to the limit.
+
+It would have doubtless astonished the old farmer had he chanced upon the
+scene just then. A young moon hung in the western sky, and while giving
+little light, still the figures of some score of stooping boys might have
+been discovered, advancing in broken formation along the road.
+
+The leader silently opened the gate leading to the dooryard of Growdy's
+place. His barns stood near the house, so that the confusion which
+reigned was all the more noticeable. Its equal had never been known
+around Stanhope; and could only be expected in the case of a place where
+a woman's influence for cleanliness had been totally absent during the
+past ten years.
+
+Over to the stable went some of the boys.
+
+Paul had talked it all over with them as they walked, and each knew what
+part he was to take in the general clean-up.
+
+To some of them it was simply another form of a lark. Boys are queer
+creatures even to those who imagine they know them well. They must be
+doing something all the time. Once get them started in the right
+direction, and they will labor just as sturdily to bring about a good
+object, as under other conditions, they would work to play a joke. It all
+depends on how they begin. And thanks to the sagacity of Paul, he had
+succeeded in interesting them in the novelty of his proposal.
+
+Some secured rakes and hoes, and began to systematically gather up the
+scattered loose material that covered the place, ankle deep. Others
+pushed the wagons, and the old dilapidated buggy, back into the shed in
+systematic order.
+
+They worked like busy bees, chuckling, whispering and evidently getting
+considerable fun out of the strange frolic.
+
+Paul himself went over the job to make sure that it had been thoroughly
+done, and that nothing remained uncared for.
+
+Up to this time fortune had favored the busy workers, since no sound had
+come about to betray their presence.
+
+"How is it, Paul?" asked Jack Stormways, as he ran across the other in
+making his rounds.
+
+"About at the end. The boys are putting the old tools back where they
+found them; and then we can go home. It's the best half hour's work
+any of us have done for a good while, I tell you, Jack."
+
+"Some of the boys don't seem to think it quite so funny now as when they
+started in. They say they can't see where the pay is going to come in,
+and have begun to grumble," whispered the other.
+
+"Perhaps it never will, and again, who knows what might come out of this?
+Anyhow, the ladies will be glad to see this dirty place clean for once.
+Some others I know may take a notion that if Old Growdy can clean up they
+ought to. Listen! what in the world is that?"
+
+A rattling of tin pans came to their ears, as if one of the boys in
+prowling around had accidently upset a bench on which a milk bucket and
+some flat tinware had been airing.
+
+"That settles it! He'll hear all that row and be out on us in a jiffy!"
+said Paul, annoyed because the affair had not gone off according to
+schedule.
+
+"Look! there's a light sprung up inside the house. He's getting his
+trousers on, all right, and the sooner we skip out the better!" declared
+Jack.
+
+The boys now came running from every direction, while sounds from within
+the nearby farmhouse told that Old Peleg must be switching on his heavy
+boots.
+
+So Paul, knowing that the only thing left now was a hasty flight, gave
+the signal arranged for. It meant every fellow for himself until they
+had put a reasonable distance between themselves and the seat of danger.
+Then they could meet at a given place, and go home, laughing over the
+whole affair, and wondering what Peleg would think when he saw what a
+miraculous transformation had taken place while he slept.
+
+Paul happened to be the very last to run away. Instead of passing out by
+way of the gate as most of the others did, Paul started to pass over the
+fence at an inviting point, where two of the bars seemed to be down, and
+he could gain the adjoining woodlot, from which he might reach the road
+at his pleasure.
+
+But alas! the best of plans often go amiss. And that gap that yawned in
+the fence proved a delusion and a snare.
+
+Hardly had Paul made the jump over the two lower bars than he found
+himself suddenly jerked down, and his head came with a crash on the
+ground, causing him to see a myriad of stars.
+
+Nor was this all. An unknown power at the same time seemed to lift his
+lower extremities up in the air at least two feet, so that he appeared to
+be trying to swim on dry land.
+
+For a moment he was puzzled to account for this remarkable happening;
+but as his head cleared a bit, and the stars ceased to shoot before his
+mental vision, he began to get an idea as to what had happened.
+
+Apparently the fellows who had painted the farmer's pigs on the other
+night must have entered his place from the woods, and through this gap
+in the fence.
+
+Old Peleg had remembered, and anticipating another invasion sooner or
+later, he had succeeded in arranging some sort of ingenious trap on the
+spot.
+
+In jumping Paul had set off the trigger, with the consequence that a
+noose had instantly tightened around his ankles, and a hogshead partly
+filled with stones, starting to roll down the slope, had drawn his legs
+upward.
+
+Well, at any rate there he was, clinging to the grass, and with an unseen
+force pulling at his elevated feet, so that he was helpless to assist
+himself.
+
+It was very funny, no doubt, but Paul hardly felt like laughing, just
+then. He tried to wriggle around so as to get at the loop, in the hope
+that he might loosen the same; but all his efforts were wasted.
+
+Old Peleg had builded better than he expected when he set that trap in
+which to catch his tormentors.
+
+He was coming now to see the result of his cunning. No doubt he had heard
+the tremendous rattle as the bulging barrel of stones started to roll
+down the slope after being liberated; for even a deaf man could hardly
+have missed that racket. Lantern in hand he was even now hobbling along,
+chuckling in anticipation of what he would find in his trap.
+
+Closer came the limping farmer. Paul saw now that he held a vicious black
+whip in his right hand, while gripping a lighted lantern in the other.
+
+Laughter in the distance told that the boys had all taken themselves off.
+They could not suspect what a dire calamity had befallen their leader, or
+a rescue party must have certainly been formed.
+
+Another minute and Peleg had arrived at the fence, and bending over held
+the lantern so that its light fell upon the figure of his captive.
+
+"Gut ye, have I? Mebbe ye'll try to paint some critters of mine agin, an'
+mebbe ye won't!" said the farmer, as he raised the ugly black whip which
+he held, with the evident intention of bringing it down good and hard on
+the helpless boy.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII
+
+TURNING THE TABLES
+
+
+"Wait, Mr. Growdy!" Paul hastened to exclaim.
+
+The old man laughed harshly as he flourished the whip. Perhaps he had
+never struck a boy before in all his life, and hardly knew how to begin;
+but his temper was plainly disturbed, and he meant to make a start.
+
+"What should I wait fur, when I cort ye in the very act? Paint my
+critters red, white an' blue, will ye? P'raps ye wanted to pull all the
+feathers out o' my flock o' chickens this time, an' think it funny. Sarve
+ye right if I gi'e ye a dozen stripes!"
+
+"Mr. Growdy, I did you a favor once!" said the prisoner of the trap,
+wishing to keep the old man as long as possible from starting operations.
+
+"Say ye so? Wall, this wipes it out then. Who air ye, anyway?"
+
+The farmer bent lower, and thrust his lantern so that its light would
+fall upon the face of the boy. Immediately he uttered a grunt, for it was
+plain that he had recognized his captive.
+
+"So, it's ye, is it, Paul Morrison? This is some surprise, seein' as
+ye're the last boy I'd expect to be up ter sech meanness. What d'ye think
+yer father'll say w'en he hears 'bout this?"
+
+"I guess he'll laugh, and say it was about the cutest trick ever played
+on you, Mr. Growdy," came the immediate answer; "but please get me down
+from this. Perhaps the blood will all run to my head. Tie my hands if you
+want, and fix it so I can't run away; but I couldn't stand this long."
+
+"So ye think yer father'd larf, do ye? I never wud 'a' b'lieved Doctor
+Morrison was the kind o' man to encourage practical jokes on anybody,"
+grumbled the old man, plainly at a loss to understand what was meant.
+
+"Well, he isn't, and I'd be sorry to have him know I was guilty of such
+a thing. But you're barking up the wrong tree, Mr. Growdy, I give you my
+word we none of us had any trick in mind when we came here to-night."
+
+"Then what took you in my dooryard here; for I heard a pack runnin' away
+when I kim out of the house? Tell me that, Paul," insisted the farmer;
+but the hand that held that cruel looking whip had fallen to his side,
+which was a good sign.
+
+"I'll be only too glad to do so if you let me up. Tie my hands, my legs
+too if you want, sir; but I'm getting dizzy from having my head below
+my heels."
+
+Peleg stooped still closer. He again held the lantern down so that he
+could look into the face of his prisoner; after which he did something
+that Paul had hardly expected--bent over, seized the rope connected with
+the laden hogshead, and pulling hard succeeded in casting the loop that
+had just encircled Paul's ankles, over a post of the fence.
+
+"Get up, Paul!" he said, grimly, yet with a flicker of curiosity in his
+wrinkled face; as though a dim suspicion that there might be something
+out of the ordinary back of this, had begun to take possession of his
+mind.
+
+Paul regained his feet, a little wobbly to be sure, for he had
+experienced a bad fall, and his head felt rather tender where it had
+come in contact with the hard ground.
+
+"Thank you, Mr. Growdy. And now I'm going to tell you something. Perhaps
+you will find it hard to believe me, and again you may not just
+appreciate our way of taking matters in our own hands, when the request
+of the women of Stanhope didn't have any effect. Look around your
+dooryard, Mr. Growdy. Do you see anything changed here?"
+
+The farmer held up the lantern, and what he saw caused him to utter an
+exclamation.
+
+"Ev'ry one o' 'em gone, by hokey! If so be ye've smashed all my rigs,
+Paul Morison, I'll have the law on ye, as sure as my name's Peleg
+Growdy!" he roared, aghast at what he deemed a serious discovery.
+
+"Come with me, Mr. Growdy. Notice as you go that this place doesn't look
+much like a pigpen now. In fact, I calculate it's as clean as any
+dooryard around Stanhope. Even the ladies can drive past now without
+being shocked. And Mr. Growdy, if you will take the trouble, sir, to look
+under that wagon shed, you'll see every one of your vehicles just where
+they should be when not in use!"
+
+The old man stared, as well he might.
+
+"By gum!" Paul heard him mutter; and the words seemed to express the
+situation so well that the boy could hardly keep from laughing outright.
+
+Finally the puzzled farmer turned and looked at the lad who stood there
+beside him. Easily might Paul have made his escape at any time now; but
+that was really the last thing he thought of doing. He would much rather
+remain and see the bewilderment of Peleg Growdy reach its conclusion.
+
+"Look here, Paul, what's this hull thing mean?" finally demanded the
+farmer.
+
+And Paul, remembering the fact that the old man was hard of hearing,
+raised his voice as he thought fit when making reply.
+
+"Do you want me to tell you the whole thing, sir?"
+
+"I sartin do, every word. Blest if I kin make head or tail out o' it.
+Reckons as how them leetle fairy twins ye read about must 'a' ben workin'
+wile I slept; er else I'm dreamin' things that caint be true."
+
+"Listen, Mr. Growdy," Paul went on. "Perhaps you may not know that we
+have started a troop of the Boy Scouts here in Stanhope. Some twenty of
+us have joined, and later on we hope to get uniforms, and other things
+needed, when we have earned the money to buy them. Those boys you heard
+running away were my friends and comrades, every one going to be a true
+scout."
+
+"Soldier bummers then, out on a raid, and ready to kerry off everything
+they kin lay hands on," grumbled the old man, still unable to grasp the
+true condition of affairs.
+
+"At a meeting to-night in Mr. Shipley's barn we made further progress
+looking to perfecting our organization. But boys will be boys, you know;
+and one of our number asked the rest to help him get even with you,
+because you forced him into the ditch this afternoon, upsetting his
+wagon."
+
+Old Growdy moved uneasily.
+
+"I was real sorry to see William do that. If he'd only waited till I
+lighted my pipe I 'spected to pull out a leetle more, so's to let him git
+by; but he was that impatient he must push on," he said.
+
+"Just as I thought. Well, Mr. Growdy, one of the rules of the scouts is
+that a member must never return an evil deed by another of the same kind.
+I proposed that we try to make you change your mind about detesting all
+boys. So we came here, not to paint your pigs as some other fellows did,
+I'm told; not to let your stock loose, or run off with your wagons; but
+to clean up your dooryard, and give you the greatest surprise of your
+life when you came out in the morning!"
+
+"Sho! now. That takes the cake!"
+
+"When one of my chums upset that bench by accident, and the pans fell
+with a racket, of course it gave the whole thing away, and we started to
+run; but unfortunately I happened to drop into your nice little trap, and
+you found me upside down. That is all, Mr. Growdy. Do you want to whip me
+now, or take me in to the lockup, which?"
+
+Peleg Growdy found himself strangely thrilled as he looked into that
+frank, smiling face of Paul Morrison.
+
+For almost a full minute they stood thus.
+
+Then Peleg spoke.
+
+"Reckon as how them comrades o' yers must 'a' gut a long start by now,
+Paul. S'pose ye see if ye kin ketch up with 'em, son."
+
+That was all, but as Paul hurried off he was conscious of a strange
+feeling deep down in his breast; and he felt sure that after all it had
+paid. Peleg Growdy at least had met with the surprise of his life. After
+this possibly his ideas of juvenile depravity might undergo a violent
+change; for such positive natures as his usually swing from one extreme
+to the other, just like the pendulum of a grandfather clock.
+
+Paul did not catch up with his fleeing comrades, for they had secured
+too good a start. When he reached the rendezvous, however, he found them
+there, one and all, and wondering what could have happened to detain him.
+
+Loud were the expressions of astonishment as he calmly announced that
+having been caught in a trap, he had held a face to face talk with Peleg
+Growdy himself; when he managed to relate the whole surprising adventure
+the boys were stunned at the possible consequences of their little prank.
+
+Those who had considered it only in the light of a joke began to see that
+Paul had something deeper in mind when he proposed such a thing.
+
+All the way home Paul was kept busy repeating some of the things he had
+said to the irate farmer. It gave those lads something to ponder over
+when by themselves. Possibly they had never before realized what a
+powerful lever for good such a method of returning a grudge may become.
+
+Paul himself was delighted. Even if nothing more came of it he could look
+back to the little adventure with satisfaction such as Ted Slavin and
+his cronies might never feel with regard to their prank.
+
+And the next morning Paul was not at all ashamed to relate the entire
+circumstance at the breakfast table. He felt amply repaid when he saw the
+look of pride upon his mother's face, as she turned her eyes, filled with
+unshed tears, upon him and said gently:
+
+"I am glad you did it, Paul. I know the history of poor Peleg Growdy; and
+surely he has had enough of trouble during his life to make him different
+from the rest of his kind. The milk of human kindness has perhaps been
+dried up in his breast; yet who knows, my boy, but that you may have set
+him to thinking by that one little act of yours. I shall never fear for
+you, Paul, whatever betides."
+
+His father, the doctor, was a man of few words; but that morning when he
+was going off on his round of visits he did an unusual thing--took Paul's
+hand, and gave it an affectionate squeeze, while the look that
+accompanied the action needed no further explanation.
+
+And Paul was many times satisfied.
+
+That day and others saw a growing buzz of excitement in the town of
+Stanhope. It seemed as though nearly every boy over the age of twelve,
+yes and even under, might be filled with a burning zeal to join the new
+troops that were being started under two different scout leaders.
+
+Ward Kenwood had entered heart and soul into the work, which seemed to
+appeal to him; but there were those who secretly believed he was more
+concerned about opposing his rival, Paul Morrison, than in building up
+a second troop of scouts that would be a credit to the place.
+
+Ted Slavin, of course, worked hand in glove with his friend, Ward. If
+money counted for anything they had no reason to complain; for inside of
+a week there blossomed out numerous boys clad in the new khaki uniforms
+that distinguish the Boy Scouts everywhere.
+
+Some of Paul's friends felt grieved because they had failed to get their
+equipments as soon as the others; but nothing could disturb the scout
+leader.
+
+"You'll see that they are bound to meet up with a snag when they apply
+for admission to the real organization. They can't subscribe to many of
+the rules. Then again you know that the real scout scorns to receive his
+uniform as a gift. Everything he owns must be earned. But most of us are
+nearly ready to send for suits. Wait a little longer. The race is not
+always to the swift."
+
+In this fashion then did wise Paul bring peace to the troubled hearts of
+those anxious ones. Never a member of the new Fox Patrols that sought an
+interview with the scout leader but who came away feeling that there was
+not a cloud in the sky of their future.
+
+In this manner a week, and then ten days, drifted along, with the opening
+of school looming up in the near future.
+
+Paul had almost forgotten the troubles of his chum when one day he had
+the fact suddenly brought to his attention again, as Jack came upon him
+with a face upon which rested the same old cloud of anxiety and grief.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX
+
+"WELL DONE, MY BOY!"
+
+
+"There, some more gone, Paul!"
+
+"But it's nearly ten days since we talked it over last, and then there
+were, let me see, I believe six coins left," returned the other, quickly.
+
+"That's true enough. And I can see now that you're wondering why none
+have been taken all this time, up to to-day," remarked Jack, as he came
+alongside his chum, who was looking in at a window where sporting goods
+made a brave display.
+
+"Will Carlo hang around and wait for you a bit?" asked Paul, looking with
+a smile toward the big Newfoundland dog that had been trotting at the
+heels of his young master, carrying a basket, in which were several
+packages from the store.
+
+"Sure. He's well trained, and that is one of the smallest of his stunts,
+as you know. See, he has laid the basket down, and stands guard over it.
+I dare any dog in Stanhope to try and take it away. Now, you want to know
+about my poor old batch of coins!"
+
+"I'm waiting to hear, old fellow," said Paul, tenderly; for he could see
+that his chum was once again highly charged with emotion.
+
+"I thought I'd try a scheme unbeknown to you," began the other, slowly.
+
+"Perhaps I can guess what you did--was it that you locked the door of
+your little den, Jack?"
+
+"Well, now, you are a champion guesser, for that was just what I did,
+every day up to this one--shut down the window, locked the door, and
+never went up there once," replied his comrade, with surprise written
+on his face.
+
+"And nothing was missing?"
+
+"Not a coin. I counted six myself this morning when I went upstairs just
+to get something out of the snuggery."
+
+"Did you forget to lock it after you, Jack?"
+
+"No; but an idea came to me. At the time I thought it a bright one; but
+now I'm more than half sorry I ever tried it."
+
+"Oh! then you left the door unlocked again on purpose?"
+
+"Yes, and with the window open, at that. The invitation was plain
+enough," murmured Jack, with dejection in his voice and manner.
+
+Paul seemed to ponder over the matter; and indeed it was quite enough to
+try any boy's wits.
+
+"Do you happen to know if any fellow called to see you to-day while you
+were out?" he asked, presently.
+
+"Now, I thought of that, and asked both my brother and Maggie to pay
+particular attention to it, if any boy stopped over, hoping I would come
+in."
+
+"Nothing doing?"
+
+"It's kind of queer, but do you know, for a wonder not a single fellow
+has been at our house this blessed day. Generally half a dozen call to
+see me, you know, to borrow books from my library, or talk over matters
+connected with our school society. It just looks as if everything wanted
+to mix me up worse than ever, and make me think--"
+
+"Never mind what it makes you think," interrupted Paul, quickly,
+squeezing the arm of his chum affectionately; "let's get down to facts.
+You know I promised that I'd find out the truth about this matter; and
+while up to now I've given it mighty little attention, don't think that
+I've forgotten, Jack."
+
+"I don't; only it bothers me to understand how you can ever expect to
+find out who's taking my old coins, if I've made a mess of it; and living
+in the house at that!" rejoined the other, with bewilderment plainly
+visible on his face.
+
+"Leave that to me. I repeat my promise, and if everything else fails why,
+what's going to hinder my hiding up there behind some of your stuff,
+where I can see for myself what happens?"
+
+"Oh!" exclaimed Jack, "that would be a clever idea; but much as I want to
+know the truth, I'm afraid to!"
+
+"Well, you've got to get over that feeling. No matter what happens it's
+far better to know the worst; for then it may be remedied. I've heard my
+father tell of many a desperate case where only heroic treatment, as he
+called it, brought his patient through. We've just got to try it here,
+Jack, old fellow. Hello! what d'ye suppose all that row's about?"
+
+"Sounds to me like a runaway horse, from the shouts," declared Jack,
+quickly forgetting his own personal troubles in the new excitement.
+
+"Look! There's the runaway, and coming this way around the corner. Oh! it
+was nearly over that time! My heart was in my mouth!" cried Paul.
+
+"There's some one in the wagon, Paul, a little child!" almost shrieked
+Jack; for the clamor was deafening by now, and ordinary sounds could
+never have been heard.
+
+No need to tell Paul that. He had just made the astounding discovery
+himself, and was thrilled with sudden horror.
+
+It was a little boy who was tugging at the lines with a heroism worthy of
+one twice his size; but such a young person could make no impression on
+the hard mouth of that terrorized animal.
+
+In the sudden whirl around the corner the lad had come very near being
+thrown but, and was even now unsteadily trying to regain his balance.
+
+Paul knew that it was an occasion for quick thinking, and even faster
+doing!
+
+He bounded away from the side of his chum as though on springs, leaving
+Jack standing there on the curb, filled with eager anticipation, and
+fears.
+
+It was not _toward_ the rapidly advancing horse that the boy ran, but in
+exactly the opposite direction, as though he were being chased. With the
+wagon flinging about from side to side, and hindering the progress of the
+runaway to some extent, Paul believed that he could almost hold his own
+in the race.
+
+Little by little he meant to let the horse overtake him. Then, at just
+the right second his chance would come to jump at the animal's head,
+seize upon the lines close to the bit, and throw his entire weight upon
+them.
+
+He knew that it called for good judgment, since the slightest mistake
+would be apt to cost him dear. To be thrown under the iron-shod hoofs of
+the galloping animal might mean making him a cripple for the rest of his
+life.
+
+Even that possibility did not daunt Paul. He only saw the frightened face
+of the little chap who so valorously clung to the lines, and shouted
+shrilly at the top of his childish voice, as though expecting the usually
+tractable horse to mind.
+
+A human life in peril--that was one of the cardinal points that must call
+for action on the part of a true Boy Scout. He might refuse to engage in
+a sanguinary battle with some rival who had dared him to a fight; but
+under no conditions must he hold back when the chance offered to do a
+good deed.
+
+Now the horse was just behind him, and still galloping furiously. If
+anything, the animal was making more desperate headway than ever, for
+the outcries on every side seemed to add to his fright.
+
+Every eye was focussed on the runner. One man in a vehicle had drawn in
+his horse, and with white cheeks watched the remarkable scene.
+
+If any among that throng had reason to send up a silent prayer for the
+safety of that daring lad just then, surely he might. For the man in the
+buggy was Doctor Alan Morrison, Paul's own father!
+
+Five seconds passed, but it seemed an hour, a day, a life-time to that
+man, as his heart ceased to beat, and he gripped the reins convulsively
+in his clenched hands.
+
+Then the heavens seemed to almost split with the sudden outburst of wild
+shouts that raced up and down that street.
+
+"He's done it! Hurrah! The boy's stopped him! Bully for Paul Morrison!"
+
+Men shouted, boys shrieked, while women embraced in their tears. The
+tense strain was over, for willing hands had clutched the lines after
+Paul's weight had brought the wild runaway to a staggering halt; and the
+danger was past.
+
+Then ensued a wild scene, everybody trying to get hold of the boy who had
+known what to do in an emergency, and not only that, but had done it.
+
+Confused, overwhelmed, Paul in the great confusion tried to flee; but
+while he did manage to duck under many of the hands outstretched to
+clutch him, it was only to dart into the arms of some one who pressed him
+to his heart.
+
+And looking up the boy saw above him the face of one whom he loved--his
+father, who had been a witness to his adventure.
+
+"That was well done, my boy; and I'm glad I saw it!" was all the good
+doctor said; but Paul never forgot the proud look that accompanied the
+words.
+
+It would return to him many times in the distant future, when he might be
+tempted by the fascinations of the world to turn aside from the narrow
+path which he had chosen to tread; and must ever be a guide and beacon
+for his footsteps.
+
+Then came Jack, with William, Tom Betts and Bluff Shipley, all nearly
+wild over the fact that it was their chum who had acquitted himself so
+well.
+
+Before Paul could make his escape he found his hand gripped by the father
+of the child in the wagon, who happened to be a prosperous farmer, with
+whom Doctor Morrison was well acquainted.
+
+"I never could tell you what I think about this, my boy," he said, with
+deep feeling. "The child's mother'll never forget you, be sure of that.
+And it ain't right for me to offer you any reward for doing such a fine
+thing; but I want you to buy something with this ten dollars, that every
+time you look at it you'll remember little Tod Perkins, what owed his
+life to you."
+
+"Oh! I couldn't think of it, Mr. Perkins. Why, it was just pie to me, you
+know. Please don't make me take it!" said the boy, still more confused;
+but the farmer had already turned away to embrace his child, and there
+seemed nothing for it but to accept the gift.
+
+"Don't offend him by refusing, Paul; he means well, and perhaps you can
+buy something with it that will serve as a reminder," said the doctor,
+always trying to avoid hurting other people's feelings.
+
+"Why, sure, what's to hinder you buying your scout's uniform with it?"
+declared William at this juncture.
+
+"You certain earned it, if anybody ever did work for what they got!"
+avowed Bobolink, positively.
+
+"Oh! w-w-why wasn't it m-m-me?" wailed Bluff, in pretended grief.
+
+"Say, do you think you could have nailed that runaway horse, with such an
+impediment twisting you up?" demanded Bobolink, grinning.
+
+"Well, boys, since you say so, I suppose then I'll just have to accept
+it, and call my outfit earned by the sweat of my brow," laughed Paul,
+taking out his handkerchief to wipe his face from its collection of
+perspiration and dust.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X
+
+AN UNEXPECTED OFFER
+
+
+Paul and his chum managed to break away finally, and walk toward the home
+of the latter. Jack had his arm through that of the other, and it seemed
+as though he felt happier over the recent exploit than the one who had
+occupied the centre of the stage.
+
+"My heart seemed to be up in my mouth just when you made that grab for
+the bit. I believe I would have fallen in a fit if you had gone under,
+Paul," said Jack, with a big sigh, as he pressed the arm he held.
+
+"Well, I was a little worried myself that something might upset me just
+then. But luck favored me, you know. I'm more than glad, because it would
+have given my mother a bad shock if I'd been trampled on. But please drop
+that subject, old fellow," said Paul, making a wry face.
+
+"I will, since you ask it; but they won't forget it in the town for a
+long time. Such things happen only once a year or more around dull old
+Stanhope. To-night we meet to see how many have the money earned for the
+suits; and I'm glad to say I can cover my needs. You're doubly supplied
+now, with this windfall."
+
+"Yes, and I wish I could help some other fellow out; but I'm afraid that
+would be against the rules of the game. Here we are at your house, and
+bless me if Carlo hasn't carried that basket of provisions straight back
+to the kitchen door. Say, he _is_ a trump, sure enough, Jack."
+
+"Oh! that's dead easy for Carlo. Why, we often put a nickel in the
+basket, and send him down to the bakery for a loaf of bread," laughed the
+other.
+
+"And does he always get it?" asked Paul, looking suddenly interested.
+
+"I don't believe he's failed for six months. Of course Mr. Crusty knows
+what we want, and wraps the loaf up so as to keep the dust off. Why, that
+ain't the best of his tricks, by a long shot. I taught him when he was
+hungry to go--"
+
+"Excuse me, won't you, Jack; there comes father, and I do believe he's
+heading home long before his usual time. Perhaps he's afraid mother may
+hear that something has happened to me, and would be anxious. I'd better
+jump in with him, don't you think? Another time I'll hear all about the
+wonderful stunts of Carlo."
+
+And so speaking Paul ran out to join his father in the buggy.
+
+Jack looked after him, and sighed heavily. It was not that he felt a
+particle jealous of the recent exploit which his chum had engineered so
+successfully; for envy was not one of his failings. But he did wish that
+his mind was as free from anxiety and suspicion as that of Paul Morrison.
+
+For the mystery of those disappearing coins hung about his neck like a
+millstone, nor could he ever know peace again until in some way it were
+explained.
+
+What happened at the Morrison home when the doctor told the story of his
+boy's heroism no one ever knew; for Paul was not the one to betray family
+secrets.
+
+But Jack, who understood what an affectionate mother his chum had, could
+easily imagine how she wrapped her arms about the boy, and pressed him
+again and again to her bosom, thanking Heaven that the child she had
+watched grow from babyhood until he was now almost as tall as his father,
+should show signs of proving himself a worthy successor to the "good
+Doctor," as every one knew him.
+
+That night the boys had the darkness to contend with when they started
+for the place of meeting, though the late moon might show her smiling
+face before the time came for them to return home.
+
+There were just twenty-two who reported at roll call that evening at
+eight, and one need only glance around at the faces of the boys, both
+large and small, to be positive that the enthusiasm, instead of dying
+out, was increasing by leaps and bounds.
+
+When the meeting had been called to order, the one subject that
+interested those gathered was the question of obtaining their uniforms
+and other outfit.
+
+A warm discussion arose shortly when Jack asked for information
+concerning the right of any scout to assist a fellow member who might be
+behind in earning the necessary amount.
+
+Some believed one way, while others seemed to look at it in another
+light, and not a few were, as Jack said, "on the fence."
+
+"Listen, fellows, and I'll tell you what I gathered from studying the
+books on the Boy Scout movement loaned me by the minister. Here are
+twenty or more of us, and we need just so much money for an outfit. Some
+can show much more than they need, others fall short, although they may
+have worked even harder. Is that plain?" and Jack looked around at the
+eager faces as he put the question.
+
+"It certainly is," remarked Paul, smiling; "some are born rich, others
+earn riches, and once in a while some lucky chap has the money stuck
+right in his hand. I'm one of the last class. But go on, Jack; for I know
+you've got a bright idea that may help us out of this hole."
+
+"The answer is easy, fellows. We must make a common fund. Then every
+member can put in all he wants, so long as it has been honestly earned.
+See my plan?"
+
+"Sure, and it goes. That's the answer to the problem. Let's try it out
+and see how near we can come to the amount needed," said Jud Elderkin,
+briskly; starting to pass around slips of paper and a pencil.
+
+"Put down what you can hand over to the general fund, each fellow; and
+remember it means cash, to be delivered to-morrow, and not credit," he
+announced.
+
+There was the utmost eagerness to carry out the idea, and before five
+minutes had passed every boy had written his name on a slip of paper,
+together with the full amount which he could contribute to the general
+fund.
+
+"I appoint Jud and Bobolink a committee to canvass the vote, and count up
+the amount subscribed," said Paul, as chairman of the meeting.
+
+It did not take very long, though the two boys were seen to go over their
+figures several times in order to make sure there could be no error.
+
+"Look at the grins on their faces! Don't that tell the story, fellows!
+Hurrah!" shouted Nuthin'.
+
+And when the amount was declared it was found that it far exceeded the
+actual sum needed to purchase uniforms for the entire twenty-two scouts,
+including hats and leggings.
+
+"Don't forget that I've just got to have a bugle, fellows. What use is it
+to be elected bugler if you can't bugle?" exclaimed Bobolink.
+
+"And m-m-me for a d-d-d-d-d-drum!" echoed Bluff, excitedly; when he was
+immediately pounced upon as usual, and pounded several times on the back.
+
+"Yes, do get Bluff something he can beat. I've heard him drum, and he's
+just a corker at it. It keeps him from talking, you know," laughed Tom
+Betts.
+
+"Hello!" exclaimed Nuthin' suddenly; "look who's here, fellows!"
+
+All eyes were immediately turned toward the door, and focussed upon the
+figure that stood just within the barn, having entered while they were
+boisterously exchanging these compliments.
+
+"Why, it's Mr. Growdy!" said Paul.
+
+"Old Peleg!" echoed Bobolink, in a hushed tone.
+
+One and all stared at the crusty old farmer, who for years had avoided
+all boys as though he thought them a dangerous breed of animals which it
+were safer to let severely alone.
+
+When Paul saw the amused smile creeping over the rugged and seamed face
+of the old farmer he understood that Peleg had really experienced a
+wonderful change of heart, dating from that night when the new Boy Scouts
+cleaned up his dooryard as an object lesson.
+
+And now Peleg was coming slowly forward, looking a bit awkward; since he
+had never been accustomed to facing an audience, and especially one
+composed of boys.
+
+They made way for him, so that presently he found himself completely
+surrounded by an eager throng.
+
+"Glad to see you, Mr. Growdy," said Paul, holding out his hand
+impulsively; and to the surprise of the others it was eagerly seized upon
+by the calloused fingers of the toiler in the fields; "these are the
+friends I spoke to you about. And this is the Fox Patrol of the newly
+organized Boy Scouts."
+
+Peleg grinned, and acknowledged the introduction by ducking his touseled
+head.
+
+"Glad to meet ye, boys. I've be'n hearin' quite considerable 'bout what
+ye was adoin' over here, an' I thort as how I'd jest drap in to see ye
+all; sorter like returnin' yer call, so to speak!" he said, again
+allowing a humorous look to appear upon his face.
+
+And somehow the boys instantly concluded that when Peleg allowed the
+lines of his severe face to relax, he was rather a jolly old chap after
+all.
+
+"Hurrah! Three cheers for Mr. Peleg Growdy!" exclaimed one of those who
+felt relieved to think that his coming meant no trouble after all.
+
+But the farmer raised his hand.
+
+"Jest wait till I has my little say, boys. Now, at fust I was kinder
+riled that a passel o' boys shud 'a' took me to task on account o' my
+way o' lettin' things run loose like at my place. But I gotter thinkin'
+her over, and by hokey if it didn't jest come home to me. Times was when
+my dooryard was the puttiest around all Stanhope, with the flowers
+abloomin', an' every scrap tidied up; but in them happy days Mandy an'
+the kids was there, ye see; an' sense they was took it 'peared like I
+never cared what things looked like; an' that's a fact, boys."
+
+The old man seemed to swallow something that threatened to choke him; and
+then, while the boys hung on his every word, and wondered how they had
+ever come to misunderstand him as they had, he went on:
+
+"But I kim to the conclusion, arter thet kind visit ye paid me, thet I
+owed a duty to the community, and it warn't right for any citizen to let
+his place look disgraceful. So arter this nobody ain't agoin' to be
+ashamed to pass by the yard where Mandy 'tended the rose bushes, and her
+tots played from morn to night. I jest drapped in here to thank ye right
+hearty boys, for showin' me wot was wantin'. Arter this there ain't never
+agoin' to be any trouble between me an' the boys o' Stanhope. They kin
+count on old Peleg Growdy to contribute to every sport that goes to
+cultivate the mind and body in the right direction!"
+
+He seemed a vastly different man as he stood there and said this, for his
+head was thrown back, his eyes flashed, and his face was almost friendly
+in its expression, the old haggard look having for the time being
+disappeared.
+
+"Again I say, three cheers for Mr. Growdy!" called Joe Clausin.
+
+"Wait a bit, fellers. I got somethin' more to say," pleaded the old man,
+once again lifting his hand to still the rising tumult.
+
+Paul smiled, for he could give a pretty shrewd guess as to what was
+coming; and it certainly did him good to realize how their odd little
+scheme was turning out to be such a glorious success.
+
+Every voice was hushed, and once more the throng waited for the farmer to
+explain.
+
+"I've been ahearin' a good lot about wot ye're all adoin' with this Boy
+Scout business. Kinder got me interested, an' I borried some books o' the
+dominie jest so I could understand wot 'twas all about. An' I want to say
+I like the ijee fust rate. If I hed any boys o' my own," and his voice
+faltered right there, "I'd sure encourage 'em to jine in with ye. Seein'
+as I ain't, an' on account o' the good turn ye done me t'other night,
+boys, I'm goin' to ask a favor o' ye. I ain't got nary a kid to leave
+my money to when I go; and so I hope ye'll let me pay for fittin' this
+here Fox Patrol out with uniforms! That's my ijee, boys, an' it'll give
+me great joy if so be ye take me up!"
+
+They looked at each other for a minute, speechless with astonishment.
+
+Then being real boys they found their voices with a rush. No need now for
+Tom Butts or Joe Clausin to suggest three cheers. That old barn fairly
+rocked with the volume of sound that burst forth, as every fellow swung
+his hat in the air, and tried his best to give his feelings free rein.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI
+
+CAUGHT NAPPING
+
+
+"Silence!"
+
+The tumult died away as quickly as it had sprung into being, when Paul
+held up his right hand and made this request.
+
+All being still again, he turned to the grinning old farmer, who was
+doubtless getting more solid satisfaction out of this new experience than
+he had obtained from any clever dicker or trade engineered in the last
+ten years.
+
+"Mr. Growdy," said Paul, with considerable of feeling in his voice, "as
+the present scout leader of Stanhope Troop No. 1 of the Boy Scouts, I
+want to thank you sincerely for your generous offer. We all appreciate
+the kindly spirit that causes you to make it to us. But unfortunately it
+happens that the rules of our organization will not allow us to accept."
+
+Peleg's face fell several degrees at this.
+
+"Say, couldn't ye jest make an exception this time, boys?" he pleaded.
+"I'll feel right hurt if I ain't 'lowed to help on this business some.
+Wot's a hundred dollars beside the new speerit ye've managed somehow to
+start up in me? If ye need more, by gum! ye kin hev it! I ain't no hog,
+if I hev let the people think so this long time."
+
+"Sorry to say so, Mr. Growdy, but we can't accept. Besides, we have all
+earned enough money now to pay for what we need, and expect to send away
+to-morrow to get our suits," Paul went on; and even while he was talking
+a bright idea came flashing into his brain.
+
+"Wall, now that's jest too bad, boys. I'd calkerlated to spend that
+hundred on doin' a good deed, an' ye make me go back home with the same
+hugged tight in my pocket. I'm sorry it cain't be did, I am, sure,"
+muttered the farmer, shaking his head, and acting like a child that has
+been cheated out of some anticipated pleasure.
+
+"That doesn't follow, Mr. Growdy," said Paul, in a low but thrilling
+voice; "if you have set your mind on using that hundred dollars to do a
+good work, perhaps I might give you a hint where it would fit in mighty
+well, and make your heart feel warm."
+
+"Hey! wot's that, Paul? I don't understand," exclaimed the man.
+
+"Down just beyond the outskirts of Stanhope there lives a poor widow
+woman who, I'm told, is in danger of being put out of her home any day
+now because she has been sick and unable to work so as to pay her rent.
+If you went to her right now, Mr. Growdy, and put that wad of money in
+her hand, I'm sure you'd never regret it, sir; and every boy here would
+thank you just as much as if you paid for his uniform. Isn't that so,
+fellows?"
+
+A chorus of shouts testified to the fact that Paul had hit upon a popular
+idea for turning the sudden generosity of the hitherto miserly old farmer
+to account.
+
+"Who is the woman?" asked Peleg Growdy uneasily.
+
+"Mrs. Jenks, who has three little children to support. Her husband was
+killed in that blast some years ago, and she never recovered a cent from
+the mining company, for they burst like a bubble," returned Paul.
+
+"By gum! wot d'ye know about that, now? I reckons as how she lives in one
+o' my own cottages, which the real estate man, Stebbins, takes keer of
+fur me. He was tellin' me about some tenant he'd have to put out; but I
+never noticed more'n that the name was Jenks."
+
+"But now?" ventured Paul.
+
+"It won't be did! No, sir, not by a jugful. I got my team outside, an'
+I'm goin' straight over to see the widder. I knowed her husband onct
+too, an' I'm some 'shamed thet I didn't look her up afore," and Peleg
+started for the door.
+
+"Hold on, Mr. Growdy!" called Paul.
+
+"Hey! wot's doin' now, boys?" demanded the old man, turning to grin again
+at his new host of young friends.
+
+"You oughtn't to leave here, sir, without giving every boy scout the
+privilege of shaking hands with you. I'm sure I speak for each fellow
+when I ask that favor," returned Paul, stepping forward.
+
+Peleg was agreeable, though he blushed like a schoolboy as the scouts,
+forming in line, walked past him, each seizing his horny hand eagerly,
+and doing his best to make the old farmer wince with the warmth of his
+squeeze.
+
+They gave him a parting cheer as he passed out, and the old fellow tried
+to return the military salute to the best of his ability.
+
+"Well, what do you think of that?" asked Nuthin', when they were once
+more gathered around their leader for the purpose of further discussion.
+
+"The finest thing that could possibly have happened. We had our frolic;
+and see what it hatched. After this Peleg Growdy will never be the same
+grumpy man he was in the past. No boy need longer hesitate to call out to
+him on the street; for Peleg, I take it, has seen a great light, eh,
+Jack?" and Paul slapped his chum heartily on the shoulder as he spoke.
+
+"My idea exactly," replied his chum, quickly. "And do you know it made me
+feel bad the way he spoke of Mandy and the kids. Some of you fellows may
+not know that he lost his wife and children in a fire that burned his
+house down while he was away. I'm glad we did that job, and you deserve
+the praise, Paul, because it was your own scheme."
+
+"Humbug! every one of you chimed in as soon as it was mentioned, and so
+you're entitled to as much praise as I am. But about those uniforms,
+boys--hadn't the scout tailor better get to work, going over his
+measurements again? We want the suits to fit all right, you know."
+
+And in this way did Paul direct the attention of his comrades in another
+quarter, because it was really unpleasant for him to be placed on a
+pedestal, as though he were different from the rest of them.
+
+Amid much laughter and joking the measuring went on. Wallace Carberry
+wielded the tape-line, and Bobolink put down the figures, being closely
+patched so that no errors could possibly creep in.
+
+So engrossed were they in this interesting business, that no one paid the
+least attention to their surroundings.
+
+And when a heavy shutter was slowly closed over the one large window of
+the tobacco barn, the fact went unnoticed.
+
+In fact the meeting was about ready to disband, and one of the boys
+started for the door to be in advance of his friends, when he made a
+discovery.
+
+"Who locked this door, fellows?" he called, as he tried in vain to budge
+the barrier.
+
+Of course this drew the attention of all the rest, and a rush was made
+for the place of exit. One by one the boys tried to push the door open,
+but even the stoutest of them failed to accomplish it.
+
+"Who was the last one in?" demanded Bobolink, furiously, as he retired,
+worsted from the encounter, to allow another a chance at the door.
+
+"Old Peleg Growdy, to be sure; and the door wasn't fastened then. D'ye
+suppose he did anything to it when he went out?" asked William, as he
+tried to assist Jud, now straining and pushing in a useless endeavor to
+move the heavy door.
+
+"That's nonsense," said Paul, as he pointed to the fact that the door
+could not be locked, since it gave an inch or so each time the boys
+pushed.
+
+"Ginger! it's got something braced against it outside, that's what!"
+announced another fellow.
+
+"As sure as you're born it has!" echoed Bobolink.
+
+All doubt was dissipated just then, for a series of loud and derisive
+shouts in boyish treble welled up from outside.
+
+"Shucks!" grunted Bobolink, in sheer disgust; "we've gone and let the
+Slavin fellers have another crack at us. A nice lot of scouts we look
+like, not to keep sentries on duty when we have a secret meeting. And now
+they've got us cooped up here like a lot of old hens! Shucks! I say
+again!"
+
+"Well, that's no reason we have to stay cooped up, is it?" demanded Jack,
+as he turned to hunt around for some object which could be used for a
+battering ram so as to force the barricaded door of the barn.
+
+"T-t-try the b-b-big wagon doors, fellows!" whooped Bluff.
+
+They did, but with no more success than had attended their puny efforts
+against the smaller exit. Those who had been at work while they talked
+must have done a good job, for the big doors were utterly immovable.
+
+"Do we have to stay in here until morning?" wailed Andy Flinn, in mock
+despair.
+
+"Not much, if I have to climb up to the roof, and knock a plank off. Say,
+those fellows must have been spying out here when I met them this
+morning," said Bobolink.
+
+"Listen now, what d'ye suppose they're doing?" demanded Nuthin'.
+
+All remained in an attitude of expectancy, and could hear strange sounds
+that seemed to come from under the boards forming the floor of the barn;
+which building had not always been used for drying tobacco alone.
+
+"Now what d'ye suppose the sillies are poking poles under there, for?"
+ejaculated William; "and just when I was going to propose that we pull up
+a board, and crawl through the hole."
+
+"Whew! what's this mean? Say, fellows, if that don't make me think of a
+blessed old skunk I don't know the odor when I meet it!" and Wallace drew
+back as he was about to get down on his hands and knees to investigate
+the meaning of the odd sounds under the barn flooring.
+
+Others got it quickly, and various cries arose, as the boys began to hold
+their noses, and look around at each other.
+
+"It'll smother us, fellows, that's what!" gasped William, quite pale by
+now; for the odor which a skunk leaves in its wake affects some persons
+powerfully, though others hardly mind it at all.
+
+"I know!" Bluff managed to gasp, with a great effort; "there's a
+f-f-family of s-s-skunks have their h-h-home under here. I've seen 'em,
+b-b-but I never b-b-bothered the b-b-beauties. Oh! ain't it j-j-just
+awful, f-f-fellows?"
+
+It certainly was.
+
+Stirred up by the poles wielded by Ted Slavin and his cronies, who must
+have discovered the presence of the polecats when visiting the barn that
+morning, and laid their plans accordingly, the little animals were using
+the only means of defence against an enemy granted them by Nature.
+
+William actually keeled over, and his brother had to drag him to the
+further end of the barn so that he might not get the full benefit of the
+overpowering scent.
+
+"Something's just _got_ to be done!" cried Jack, himself not feeling any
+too well under the infliction.
+
+"Here, help me lift this old beam, boys. We can make a battering ram out
+of it, and burst a board off somehow. Never mind the damages; they can be
+repaired easy enough. Two more get hold. Now, swing around this way. I
+think the weakest place is in the rear. Keep back, the rest of you. Here
+goes!"
+
+Five others had been only too willing to lend a hand when Paul called for
+volunteers. The beam that had been lying against the further wall was
+good and heavy; but that made it all the better as an engine for ramming
+a hole through the boarded side of the barn.
+
+Amid the cheers of the scouts the novel battering ram was carried forward
+with a will, and on the run. Some of the boys held up lanterns so that
+those who were in the line of attack could see just where to strike. Even
+poor overcome William managed to raise his head, and feebly wave a hand
+of encouragement.
+
+The beam struck with tremendous force, and nothing in the way of a plain
+ordinary boarding could withstand the impetus with which it was driven
+forward.
+
+"Whoop!" yelled the scouts, as a big aperture appeared in the side of the
+barn, and the route to liberty lay before them.
+
+They were not slow to avail themselves of the privilege either, but
+hastened to scramble through the gap, carrying the lanterns with them.
+William managed to get up enough steam to crawl outside, where he could
+breath air that was not fetid, and filled with overpowering odors.
+
+Only Bluff looked back half regretfully at the haven of refuge they had
+just quitted. For he was wondering how his father could ever manage to
+efface that scent so that the tobacco, soon to be harvested, might be
+hung up in that barn without detracting from its marketable value.
+
+And once out of the trap the Boy Scouts began to chase around, with
+vengeance in their eyes; but as on previous occasions the wary enemy,
+after accomplishing their mischief, had been wise enough to slink away.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII
+
+THE RIVAL TROOPS
+
+
+"How far do we have to go in this new plan of forgiving the enemy, Paul?"
+asked William, who had by now fully recovered from his recent weakness,
+and was burning with zeal to avenge himself upon their persecutors.
+
+"Yes, this thing has got to have a limit!" declared Jud Elderkin, as he
+glared around at the moonlit scene, and no doubt imagined their rivals
+hiding near by, where they could laugh at the disturbed group.
+
+Paul knew boy nature too well to stretch their patience beyond the
+breaking point. He was astonished that such fire-eaters as Bluff,
+William, and several more, could restrain themselves even as well as they
+had.
+
+To keep them in hand the reins must be loosened a little; but only to
+enable him to get a better hold later on.
+
+"Well, there's no positive rule, fellows; and so far as I can see I
+believe the limit has already been passed, with us," he said, pleasantly.
+
+"Hurrah! that's the kind of talk!" cried the inflammable Twin.
+
+"Then you give us permission to pitch in, and whale the whole bunch the
+next time they play one of their measly old tricks on us? Is that so,
+Paul?" demanded Jud.
+
+"Oh! I only h-h-hope so!" came from Bluff.
+
+"Wait till the time comes, and perhaps I'll help you give them a
+much-needed lesson. We don't want to play the worm part, always,"
+remarked Paul; "and now, boys, let's head for home."
+
+"Ta-ta, sweet little meeting-house on the edge of the woods; I'll carry
+fond memories of you as long as this suit of clothes lasts, I guess,"
+said William, waving his hand mockingly backward toward the deserted
+barn.
+
+"Watch out for some of those Slavin fellows on the road. They may bombard
+us from the woods with rocks!" warned Joe Clausin.
+
+"Just let 'em try, that's all. We'll chase the stone thrower to a
+standstill, and then he'll be sorry he wandered away from his happy home
+this night!" Bobolink declared, ferociously.
+
+So they walked along in detached groups, many eyes were on the alert, and
+listening ears bent to catch some sign of a lurking foe.
+
+Once or twice they heard signals being exchanged deep in the woods,
+evidently by the scattered cohorts of Ted; but while valiant, the members
+of the Fox Patrols were wise and prudent as well, copying the cautious
+attributes of the wary animal after which their new organization had been
+named.
+
+They declined to explore the dense forest, seeking a foe that might only
+be bent on luring them along, until ready to pounce on them in a body, to
+make them prisoners of war.
+
+And so finally the march came to an end, with all hands satisfied that
+the last meeting of the little host of new scouts had been attended by
+several of the most exciting circumstances that ever befell the boys of
+Stanhope.
+
+Paul and his chum walked on together, until reaching the first home they
+said good night. But neither again brought up that subject which had been
+worrying Jack Stormways for so long a time.
+
+If Paul had conceived any sort of an idea in connection with the strange
+disappearance of the old coins, he kept it to himself.
+
+Once, however, on the way home after leaving Jack, he stopped to clap his
+hand down vigorously on his knee, and whispered to himself:
+
+"Now, I wonder if that could possibly be so?"
+
+But no matter what idea had struck him, further words didn't come to tell
+whether his thoughts were connected with Jack's personal trouble; or on
+the other hand if the annoying enmity of Ted Slavin, Ward Kenwood, and
+their would-be scout troop, was still on his mind.
+
+Nevertheless, as Paul passed up to the front door of his home, and
+stopped a minute to look up at the bright moon sailing across the eastern
+heavens, he considered that he had good reason to feel more than
+satisfied with the magnificent results already attending the new methods
+of the Boy Scouts.
+
+On the following day he sent off the letter containing a check which his
+father gave him in place of the money, so that it might not be lost.
+
+Then followed a period of anxious waiting, during which many of the
+members of the Stanhope Troop No. 1 felt touches of envy at sight of
+their rivals parading the streets, decked out in the full regalia of
+Scouts, and carrying themselves with the proudest of airs.
+
+They knew that Ted and Ward were busily engaged in drilling their
+followers in many of the devices prominently mentioned in the manual
+book. For that matter, though, it did not require regulation suits of
+khaki to excel in those same things; and so the Foxes also studied and
+experimented, and burned candles at night in the endeavor to learn all
+that was possible of those various accomplishments.
+
+There was a great difference in the boys of the town.
+
+Few who were of the proper age but who belonged to one or the other of
+the troops; and people were beginning to notice how much more manly they
+carried themselves, and how anxious they seemed now to get credit marks
+at home.
+
+Parents upon meeting never failed to talk about this wonderful change,
+and express hopes that it would last.
+
+"The best thing that ever happened, barring none, I think," was what the
+old minister declared, at a meeting of the Women's Club; "and it deserves
+to be encouraged. Why, you ladies should take advantage of this wave of
+reform, to get these lads interested in keeping the streets of the town
+clean. Give me fifty willing workers among the boys, and I warrant you
+there will never be a stray piece of paper blowing around. They'll
+provide receptacles for trash, and see that everybody uses them."
+
+And so it went around, and everybody seemed delighted at the innovation.
+Only a few skeptical old fogies shook their heads, and declared that it
+was too good to last, and that they about expected to see the boys of
+Stanhope transplanted to the heavens in a body presently, since their
+wings must be sprouting.
+
+About this time it came to the ears of Paul that the banner which the
+peace-loving Quaker, Mr. Westervelt, had offered for the most proficient
+troop of scouts along the Bushkill, had been placed on exhibition in the
+window of a jewelry store over in the manufacturing town of Manchester.
+
+He and Jack wheeled over that very day to inspect the coveted trophy.
+When they saw what a beauty it was, their hearts thrilled with new
+aspirations.
+
+"Worth fighting hard for, eh, Paul?" observed Jack.
+
+"I should say, yes," replied the other, delight written in big letters on
+his face, pressed so close to the glass; "and I reckon it would do our
+fellows lots of good just to run down here to look at that dandy banner.
+I must tell them all about it, and have them see it for themselves."
+
+"A bully good idea. You know how to get a fellow to put his best licks
+into any job he undertakes," declared his chum, admiringly.
+
+"Humbug!" scornfully replied Paul; "why, it's as easy as falling off a
+log. Don't you feel more like straining every nerve in the effort to win
+that prize, after seeing how handsome it is? Well, I just try to believe
+every fellow is more or less like I am. That's the whole secret. Yes,
+Stanhope must work hard to catch up with the other fellows."
+
+There were several boys standing around, also gaping at the fine snowy
+banner, upon which as the card under it, went on to state, was to be
+embroidered with colored silk the totem of the leading patrol of the
+successful troop.
+
+These fellows could not help knowing who the strangers in town were; and
+it was also easy for them to guess what had brought Paul and Jack down
+there. More than a few times had they seen these Stanhope boys competing
+on the athletic field, either in baseball, or football. And of course it
+was always good form for Manchester lads to "josh" any would-be rivals.
+
+"Yes," said one of the natives, with a grin, "up in that corner is where
+the eagle is going to be painted. And every time we go on a hike we'll
+carry that banner at the head of the procession."
+
+"They say," remarked another, with pretended innocence, "that poor old
+Stanhope is getting up a troop, and even hopes to have a try for this
+beauty. Now, what do you think about the nerve of that, fellows?"
+
+"Oh! well, the more the merrier," came from a third, whom Paul knew to be
+the scout leader of the "Eagles" in person, "and after all, we don't mind
+showing these tenderfeet scouts how to do stunts. None of us want to be
+hogs, boys. There's room enough for all, even if some do have to eat
+the husks."
+
+Paul had to laugh out loud at this.
+
+"Say, you're on to us, all right, Manchester," he said, turning around.
+"Yes, we've come down here just to take a peep at this great prize. Of
+course we'd like mighty well to say we meant to win it; but we're too
+modest for that. The most we admit is that we mean to make a try for it.
+Of course we haven't got much show against two such veteran troops as
+Manchester and Aldine; but we want to get all the fun out of the game we
+can. And you won't begrudge us that, Claypool?"
+
+"Sure we won't, Morrison," returned the other, frankly, thrusting out
+his hand; "as I said before, the more in it the better. It will make our
+victory look bigger."
+
+"Glad to see you're so dead sure of winning out," laughed Paul; "whenever
+the Stanhope boys go into anything they always work harder if they have
+big odds against them. But all the same that's a bully good banner, and
+no matter whether it has an eagle, the head of a beaver, or that of a
+fox worked on it in colored silk, it's going to be something we'll all
+be proud of as Boy Scouts."
+
+"That's well put, Morrison; though you might just as well get it out of
+your head now as later that the Manchester fellows will ever let any
+crowd come in here and take that dandy flag away. Why, our fellows know
+ten times as much about scout tactics as your greenhorns do now."
+
+Claypole did not mean to be overbearing; when he said this he really
+believed it to be an actual fact.
+
+"That's very true," said Paul, quietly, as he and his chum prepared to
+mount their wheels for the return journey; "but Thanksgiving is still
+more than two months off; and Claypole, I give you my word, we've got
+some of the smartest tenderfeet in the Stanhope troop you ever heard
+of. Ta-ta, boys!"
+
+Of course, when Paul and Jack told what they had seen, every fellow
+wanted to make the run over to Manchester to look for himself. And,
+just as Paul had expected, they came back home more than ever enthused
+with the hope and prospect of winning that royal banner for the Stanhope
+troop.
+
+At the next meeting the talk was all about the prize, and a vote was even
+taken to ascertain to whom the honor of being the banner bearer might
+fall, in case the victory was awarded to Stanhope. Wallace Carberry
+turned out to be the lucky standard bearer.
+
+All of which was just what clever Paul wanted. He had infused a new
+stimulant into the veins of his comrades. And at their next outdoor
+rally, when various contests were undertaken to discover who showed the
+most skill, he found that the very atmosphere seemed to be surcharged
+with electricity; for the boys labored to excel as they had never done
+before; but it was because each one believed that upon his shoulders
+alone devolved the duty of bringing that beautiful prize to Stanhope.
+
+Four days later the expected suits arrived, much sooner than even the
+most sanguine had anticipated.
+
+Then there _was_ a time.
+
+The usually quiet and peaceful streets of the town were fairly filled
+with khaki-clad warriors, strutting up and down, exchanging military
+salutes, and arousing the admiration of all the girls, who came forth
+to gaze and applaud.
+
+It was a great day for Stanhope. A stranger visiting there for the first
+time might think some military academy must have taken up fall quarters
+near by, and granted full liberty to its uniformed hosts.
+
+If there were those who had been hesitating about joining either of the
+troops, a decision must certainly follow the first glimpse of those
+gallant uniforms.
+
+That night many a lad ate supper as an honored guest at his father's
+table; for surely the wearer of a uniform must be entitled to unusual
+privileges.
+
+Of course the word had gone around for a meeting of the Stanhope No. 1.
+But it was not to be held at the Shipley barn--oh! no, those boys had
+had "quite a sufficiency," as Bobolink said, of their former quarters;
+and Bluff admitted that his father would not dare use the building again
+that year for his tobacco crop.
+
+Jason Carberry, father of the twins, had asked as a favor that they make
+use of his big smithy; and since the night air was cool, Paul had
+accepted this generous proposition of the blacksmith on the spot.
+
+So that was where they came together, a uniformed organization, at last.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII
+
+"FIRE!"
+
+
+"Man the bellows, somebody."
+
+"Yes, stir up the fire in that forge, William. It's the coldest September
+night on record, and that's a fact!" exclaimed Bobolink, as he pushed
+the lively member of the Carberry team toward the smouldering fire left
+by the blacksmith when he gave over his capacious smithy to the Boy
+Scouts for their meeting.
+
+"M-m-my dad s-s-says he once lost his t-t-t-tobacco c-crop in
+S-s-september!" observed Bluff, shaking his head as he pushed toward
+the fire.
+
+The boys had had a fine meeting.
+
+Besides the twenty-two in their new uniforms, four new recruits had been
+present, to drink in with eager ears all that passed, and sigh for the
+day to come when they too might shine forth in such resplendant suits.
+
+Already was there much rivalry shown in the many competitions which the
+young scout leaders had instituted. There was a class on aviation,
+another that had taken up the mysteries of camping with all its
+fascinating details; a third chose photography as the most entrancing
+subject, and exhibited many pictures that were to be entered in the great
+contest of the county for the banner.
+
+Then several boys had doubled, for surely the knowledge of cookery went
+hand in hand with that of camping; while a good stalker could at the same
+time enter for a merit badge in the path-finding line.
+
+Besides, though the season was late for swimming, several fellows who
+knew just what their best accomplishment might be, had qualified to
+enter this class.
+
+On the whole the meeting had been a most interesting one. Every scout
+was burning with enthusiasm, and many were the resolutions that Stanhope
+must have what Bobolink called a "show-in," with regard to that coveted
+banner, which was to fall to the leading patrol of the county.
+
+They were now almost ready to "break camp" for the evening, and before
+doing so indulged in a little general talk. Many had ideas which they
+wished to advance, in order to discover what the attitude of their
+comrades might be.
+
+"Mr. Chairman," said Wallace Carberry, when he found a little lull in the
+buzz of conversation, "I have a proposition I'd like to put before the
+meeting before we disband."
+
+"Hear! hear!" shouted several of the boys, notably those who had been
+seen in close confab with Wallace, and hence probably in touch with his
+scheme.
+
+"All right, Number Seven; let's hear what it is," replied Paul, readily.
+
+Every member of each patrol had a number. These began with the scout
+leader, who of course had to take the "initial sack," as Bobolink, still
+baseball wild, put it. Jack, as his assistant in control, came as Number
+Two; Bobolink next; Bluff captured Four as his distinguishing feature;
+Nuthin' being Five, and the twins the next pair, for it would never do to
+separate William and Wallace, while Tom Betts was Eighth and last.
+
+"If the gentlemen present will give me the floor, with the privilege of
+three minutes in which to explain what I have in mind, I will be glad to
+comply."
+
+Wallace was very precise in his way of putting things. This did not
+happen only when in school, or as he stood up to address a meeting of
+his chums. He could not unbend his dignity even under the most trivial
+conditions.
+
+William was just the reverse; and so full of frolic and fun that the boys
+always declared the pair to be unequally matched, since in disposition
+they were exact opposites.
+
+And yet under it all there was the same abiding affection that generally
+may be found between twins.
+
+"Hear! hear!" shouted the boys once more.
+
+"Let's have it, Wallace, old sport. It's bound to be a jim-dandy idea!"
+declared a loud voice that seemed to spring from the ceiling; but no one
+was deceived, for they knew only too well how Bobolink could throw his
+voice pretty much where he pleased.
+
+"Silence!"
+
+When Paul, who in the absence of a regular scout master, occupied the
+chair, uttered this one word every sound ceased; and after that there was
+no excuse for Wallace to hesitate longer.
+
+"Some of us have been talking it over, Mr. Chairman, and we would
+respectfully request that you name an early date when we can go out into
+the woods for several tests of skill. There is much keen rivalry among a
+number of us already, which can only be settled by an open trial. First
+of all there is the interesting water-boiling test of woodmanship. We
+want to know who is the leading light in that class so we may push him
+forward to enter the general competition with other Boy Scout troops. Am
+I understood, Mr. Chairman?"
+
+"I think you have made your meaning plain, and the one particular
+competition you mention happens to be the most interesting of all,"
+replied Paul.
+
+"Then may we hope that you will name an early day for the trial to come
+off? Unfortunately school begins shortly now, and outside of Saturdays
+and holidays the several Fox patrols may not have much chance to practice
+before the grand trial comes off. Make it as early as possible, Mr.
+Chairman."
+
+"How would to-morrow do?" asked Paul, only too anxious himself to
+ascertain how the boys would "toe the mark."
+
+Wallace looked at his backers, and there were vigorous nods in answer to
+the question seen upon his face.
+
+"It seems to be the unanimous consensus of opinion, Mr. Chairman, that
+to-morrow would suit first rate. Please give us the hour for assembling,
+and you can depend on our being on deck," Wallace remarked.
+
+"Two o'clock ought to answer. That will give us plenty of time to try out
+a lot of stunts I shall arrange for."
+
+"Where shall we meet?" asked Jud Elderkin.
+
+"H-h-how about our b-b-barn, fellows?" queried Bluff, grinning.
+
+There was an instantaneous howl of derision, and every right hand went up
+so that the thumb and forefinger might compress a nose.
+
+"Another year might do, Bluff!" called one.
+
+"What isn't fit for storing tobacco can't be a proper meeting place for
+respectable Boy Scouts!" declared another, energetically.
+
+"Oh! he's only bluffing, fellows; don't mind him!"
+
+"In fancy I can smell it now," sang another, mockingly.
+
+"We'll meet just outside this very blacksmith shop, and at two sharp,"
+declared the chairman, decisively; "and any scout who is tardy will
+be given one or more bad marks that he must carry as a load in the
+competition. Punctuality is a leading trait in Stanhope Troop No. 1,
+you understand. Any other proposition?"
+
+The boys began to talk among themselves, and for a short time there was
+a constant buzz that sounded like a big hive of bees.
+
+Jack found himself in contact with Paul while this was going on. He had
+been doing his duty to the best of his ability as he understood it; and
+while the meeting was in progress had proven conclusively that he had a
+thorough knowledge of the many things a full fledged scout must know.
+
+Jack meant to graduate from the tenderfoot class in the shortest possible
+space of time. Any scout may do this by being diligent in the pursuit of
+various lines of woodcraft.
+
+"Well," said Jack, as he pushed alongside his chum, "this has been a
+dandy meeting, all right. And there are four new fellows knocking at the
+door; with perhaps more to follow, when Stanhope learns what great times
+we have."
+
+"Yes, and I guess we'll need new recruits right along. You know that some
+of the boys will fall by the wayside soon after the novelty has worn
+off," remarked wise Paul, who delighted in studying human nature as he
+saw it around him.
+
+"Listen! fellows! The fire alarm!" shouted Joe Clausin, just at that
+instant.
+
+Every voice was hushed.
+
+Clear upon the night air rang out the sound of a tocsin--the stroke of a
+hammer upon a steel rim from a locomotive wheel, and which was hung aloft
+in the only firehouse in Stanhope.
+
+It was a thrilling sound at any time, and especially to a company of
+boys newly enlisted in the great cause of humanity--of lending a hand
+to neighbors who might be in trouble. So after several more clear,
+resounding strokes had pealed forth, calling the volunteer department
+out to fight the fire demon, one scout started wildly for the double
+doors of the smithy.
+
+He was immediately followed by others, and in almost the twinkling of an
+eye the Carberry blacksmith shop was emptied of its late noisy crowd.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV
+
+JACK'S CHANCE
+
+
+"Wow! look at that, will you?"
+
+"It's a barn most likely!"
+
+"Don't you believe it. I can see the roof of the house! Say, I believe it
+must be that old Bradley place! Come along, fellows!"
+
+"There are the firemen on the run! They'll have old Rescue No. 1 on the
+jump in a jiffy. Hey, fellers, let's get busy, and pull the hose cart for
+'em!"
+
+"Bully idea. Lead the way, Paul! It's up to you to show us how!"
+
+With these and many more cries the Boy Scouts bore down on the building
+that sheltered the lone fire department of the town. This consisted of
+a cast-off engine in good repair which had been purchased from some big
+city, where they were installing an auto in place of horse power for
+propelling their machines; and a hose reel, the latter to be drawn by
+a line of men.
+
+Of course the assembling firemen were only too glad of the offered aid.
+To have a score of husky boys appear so readily on the scene, ready for
+business, was in the line of a "snap."
+
+Accordingly, while some of the men got the horses hitched to the engine,
+and others started the fire going, the hose cart was rushed out, and its
+long rope eagerly seized by the waiting boys.
+
+Paul was at the end of the line, for a scout leader must live up to his
+reputation as a general, no matter what the emergency.
+
+"Pull!" went forth the cry, and immediately the hose reel started off in
+the direction where a flash of fiery red announced that the excitement
+was centred.
+
+Nothing could please such an energetic lot of lads more than a chance to
+make themselves useful in this way. They pulled with a will, and passed
+along the road leading out of the town, on a wild run.
+
+The one who had declared that it was the old Bradley house that was on
+fire must have had the situation well in mind. Perhaps he lived in that
+neighborhood, and was better able to judge than the balance of the boys.
+At any rate all of them had by now made sure of the fact.
+
+Paul remembered that a family, in which were quite a number of children,
+had lately come to town, and taken the big ramshackle building.
+
+The thought gave him a thrill, and inwardly he found himself hoping that
+none of them might be caught in that fire-trap.
+
+"There comes the old machine!" shouted the fellow who, not being able to
+get a grip on the rope by which the hose wagon was drawn, trotted in the
+rear, and made out to push.
+
+Yes, they could hear the shouts of the excited fire laddies now, and also
+catch the sound of galloping horses.
+
+Looking over his shoulder, Paul saw a medley of moving lights, evidently
+the lanterns carried by the volunteers. These were doubtless clad in
+their old toggery and fire hats, the foreman with his silver trumpet in
+evidence, without which no respectable fire would think of allowing
+itself to be quenched.
+
+And a rising column of sparks attested to the fact that the fire in the
+engine was in full blast, so that steam would be ready by the time the
+scene of operations was reached.
+
+"One side, boys, and let them pass! Give them plenty of room!" called
+Paul.
+
+He had seen that old engine booming along to a fire on many an occasion,
+and remembered that the driver, Hank Seeris, was inclined to be a
+reckless hand; for as a rule the machine was wobbling from side to
+side, and threatening to overturn at any minute.
+
+Up to this date that catastrophe had never happened; but Paul remembered
+the old saying that "a pitcher may go to the well once too often;" and he
+had fears.
+
+It proved that they were well grounded too, after the hose reed had
+safely negotiated the last bend in the road, and the burning dwelling was
+in plain sight.
+
+"Look at them coming, full tilt! They will be over at the turn!" shrieked
+Bobolink, who, being near the tail end of the double line could observe
+what was taking place without hindrance.
+
+Immediately there arose a chorus of loud shouts, as of warning. But
+apparently Hank Seeris must have been indulging in more liquor than was
+good for him; or else he happened to be in an unusually reckless state.
+
+"They're going over!" howled Bobolink.
+
+"Smash!"
+
+"Oh! there goes our only engine to the scrap heap!" exclaimed Jud
+Elderkin, in dismay; for his father happened to be the foreman, and it
+looked just then as though the gallant fireman might be without a job.
+
+Paul ran back, as did most of the boys, thinking that something terrible
+must have happened.
+
+The plunging horses had been pulled down, and a man was already sitting
+on the head of each to keep them from kicking further. There are
+generally some wise persons present in such a calamity, who know just
+what ought to be done.
+
+Willing hands were already unhitching the horses, so that they could be
+taken out of the way, and the ditched engine upraised.
+
+"Where's Hank, the driver! Is he hurt?" asked some one; and Paul
+recognized the old minister, who must have been on the way home from
+visiting when the alarm burst out, and hence he had accompanied the fire
+fighters, eager to lend a hand at the rescue work.
+
+"Here he is, and just comin' to, after being knocked senseless. Hank
+ain't hurted, I reckon," answered a citizen who had run with the machine.
+
+"How about the engine--is she much damaged?" asked the foreman, as men
+set about raising the heavy Rescue No. 1.
+
+"Out of business for this trip, Elderkin. She'll never work again till
+she's gone down to the city for repairs," came the answer.
+
+A groan of dismay went up.
+
+"That settles the fate of the old Bradley house, then," declared many, as
+they saw the flames and smoke apparently increasing.
+
+Everybody was now anxious to get on the scene, and the engine was left in
+charge of a watcher, while the crowd rushed along, exchanging views of
+the accident, and the chances of saving the building by means of a bucket
+brigade.
+
+The foreman proved himself to be the right man in the right place. He
+instantly organized a double line of men and boys, leading from the creek
+near by, up to the house that was burning.
+
+Every imaginable species of bucket and tin pail was pressed into use. Men
+and boys invaded the kitchen and captured all sorts of utensils, from
+milkpans to butter firkins.
+
+These were put into use, and passed along as rapidly as those at the
+creek end could plunge them in, and fill them with water.
+
+At the other terminus the foreman and his assistants took the water
+pails, and dashed the contents here and there as opportunity arose.
+
+The Boy Scouts were nearly all somewhere in the line, and working
+valorously. For the time being they utterly forgot they were dressed in
+their new suits of khaki, and that the pails slopped over continuously,
+soon soaking them to the skin.
+
+Cheered on by the appeals of their leader they never flinched. It was the
+first chance Paul had of seeing how his enlisted followers could forget
+self, and rise grandly to an occasion.
+
+When any one showed signs of tiring he was quickly crowded out of the
+line by another eager willing worker. Indeed, there seemed to be three
+applicants for each job; and had there been more buckets several lines
+might have been formed to make use of that accommodating creek.
+
+Jack, after a little, found himself pushed aside by another scout, who
+wanted to exercise his muscles, and could wait no longer.
+
+Seeing a group around some children, and hearing sudden cries from a
+woman, Jack hurried across the lawn. Somehow he seemed to fear that
+new trouble had broken out; and when he saw a half-clad figure wringing
+her hands, and shrieking, he realized that his suspicions were going to
+prove true.
+
+"What is it?" he asked, of another scout, coming away from the group.
+
+"Her baby. She says it is in the house!" replied the boy, whose face was
+white with the horror of it all.
+
+"What?" cried Jack; "did she forget her own baby, then?"
+
+"She thought her husband had it. He's a sick man too. See, that's him
+they are holding back there. He wants to go in for the baby, and they
+won't let him. Oh! Jack, I'd like to do it, but I'm afraid of fire. I
+just dassent!" sobbed the boy.
+
+Jack waited to hear no more. His blood seemed to be on fire, and his
+teeth came together with a click.
+
+Another moment and he was in the group, eagerly plying the almost
+distracted mother with questions as to which room her baby had been in.
+Fortunately Jack had once known a boy living in the old Bradley mansion;
+so that the interior of the house was not strange to him.
+
+"Our bedroom--it is the corner one where the tower stands. The one that
+has the alcove!" the lady managed to cry, as she caught his arm, and
+looked, oh, so pleadingly, in his boyish, determined face.
+
+After that Jack would have risked anything in the attempt to save that
+innocent little one. He rushed off without saying a word. Several put
+out a hand to stop him, under the belief that it was useless, since that
+portion of the building seemed to be a mass of flames by now. But Jack
+dodged them just as he did when running with the ball on the football
+field.
+
+When he dashed into the house, disappearing in the volume of smoke that
+poured from the open doorway, a groan went up from the great crowd; for
+they doubted as to whether he would ever be seen alive again.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV
+
+THE HONOR BRAND
+
+
+"He's gone!"
+
+"Who was that boy?" called the foreman of the fire company, as he came
+running up, waving his speaking trumpet.
+
+"Jack Stormways, the lumber man's boy!" some one answered.
+
+"Well, he's a good one, all right; but I'm sorry for his mother!" said
+the experienced fire-fighter, as he looked anxiously at the flames
+pouring out from several windows directly under the room next the tower.
+
+Paul had dropped out of the line. He could not pass another bucket after
+seeing the chum he loved so well plunge into the doomed building. From
+right and left he heard many things spoken, and presently understood what
+it was induced Jack to attempt what seemed so like a foolhardy thing.
+
+So it would have been, had the object of Jack's attempt been the securing
+of valuables, no matter what the amount. But a human life counts for
+more than earthly riches; and a brave soul never stops to consider the
+risk when a fellow being is in peril of a terrible fate.
+
+Jack found himself in the midst of dense smoke as soon as he plunged
+across the doorsill. He had foreseen this, and with a wisdom beyond his
+years made simple preparations to combat the evil.
+
+On the way to the door he passed close by one who carried a bucket
+of water, and some happy inspiration caused him to snatch out his
+handkerchief and dip it into the cool liquid, not wringing it out to
+any extent.
+
+This he clapped over his nose, so that in breathing the wet cloth would
+keep much of the suffocating vapor from being drawn into his lungs.
+
+His eyes began to smart furiously. By the time he was half way up the
+stairs he could not see a thing around him save murky clouds of smoke,
+lighted by the tongues of flame that darted like serpents out of many
+places.
+
+He staggered up still further, and fell on the landing. But gaining his
+feet again he pushed on, still heading in the right direction. Only for
+the knowledge he possessed regarding the interior of the building, Jack
+would have lost his bearings then and there. The result must have been
+serious indeed.
+
+Along the hall he went. It seemed to grow hotter the further he pushed;
+but even that did not daunt him. Once enlisted in a good cause he must
+go on, no matter what faced him. Had not Paul said words to that effect,
+after telling them what it meant to be a tried and true scout?
+
+And here the opportunity had come to him not half an hour after the
+thrilling words were spoken!
+
+Those outside while still sending the buckets of water along, in the
+effort to save one portion of the large house, were waiting to see what
+came of Jack's attempt at rescue.
+
+"He's lost!" declared one, as the fire broke out in a new place; "see,
+that's the tower burning now, and she said the baby was in the room next
+there."
+
+"Poor old Jack! to think it should be him to go!" groaned Bobolink; "see,
+Paul, there's his father passing the buckets along. He don't even know
+his boy is in the old shack! Oh! my, whatever did he take chances like
+that for?"
+
+"Because he couldn't stand and see that poor mother shrieking for her
+baby. Because he's got the strongest heart of us all! That's why!"
+declared Paul, his voice vibrating with love for the chum he might never
+see alive again.
+
+And Bobolink said to himself:
+
+"By the jumpin' Jehosaphat, I believe Paul would have gone if Jack
+hadn't. He's lookin' at that house now like he wanted to run right in
+and tear it to flinders."
+
+"There he is at the window!" whooped a man's heavy voice.
+
+Instantly every eye ranged along the front of the building, wherever the
+columns of smoke permitted. And many a finger was pointed at the one
+where a waving hat served to draw attention.
+
+"He's shouting something. Keep still, everybody!"
+
+A dead silence immediately ensued. Only the roaring and crackling of the
+hungry flames could be heard, as every ear was strained to catch what
+it was the imperiled boy was saying.
+
+"He's got the baby--look! he's holding her up!"
+
+A shriek came from the agonized mother, and she fell on her knees with
+clasped hands.
+
+"Listen to what he says!"
+
+"Go to back of house--get ladder to window there!" called Jack huskily,
+at the top of his voice.
+
+"Hurrah! we understand, old fellow! We'll have you out of that yet!"
+whooped Bobolink, starting on the run around the end of the mansion.
+
+"A ladder--bring it around, boys! Let's save the brave youngster!" howled
+the tall foreman.
+
+The ladder happened to be up against the building at a point where the
+flames had now burst forth, driving the fire-fighters back. Himself, the
+foreman led in a bold forward rush to capture the required ladder; nor
+was he to be denied, scorning the efforts of the licking tongues of fire
+to daunt him.
+
+Then, with a swarm of followers, he pushed around the corner. Here,
+to be sure, there did seem to be less of smoke and blaze, owing to the
+direction of the night wind.
+
+Now they were placing the ladder. It reached up to a window, and if only
+Jack would show himself all might be well. Seconds were like an eternity
+to those who crowded below, every face upturned, and every eye ranging
+along the side of the house.
+
+The fire was pushing in this direction too, for it suddenly burst out
+of a broken window. From many pairs of lips there burst a groan. Well
+did they know that every second counted against the boy, who was
+doubtless groping his way along halls and through rooms filled with
+that overpowering smoke.
+
+"There he is!"
+
+It was like a sudden electric shock, that cry. The clarion notes of a
+bugle would not have thrilled that vast crowd one half so surely as did
+the appearance of a head at a window on the left.
+
+Jack had been shrewd enough to pick out a room that was further away from
+the devouring flames. A hoarse shout went up at sight of him.
+
+"He's got the baby too!" was the tenor of that victorious cry; and it
+was as though every man and boy and other person present felt a personal
+interest in the success of Jack's daring venture.
+
+The precious baby was saved; yes, he was hugging the bundle to his
+breast; and during a lull in the clamor they plainly heard the lusty
+cries that proceeded from that shawl-wrapped package. Those were
+doubtless the most blessed sounds that ever reached the strained ears
+of the praying mother.
+
+Quickly was the ladder lifted and rushed along the wall of the house
+until it stood beneath the window where Jack had shown himself.
+
+The foreman himself mounted as soon as it was in position. But Jack
+refused to hand over his burden, nor could Mr. Elderkin insist. It was
+only right that the one who had saved the little darling should have the
+pleasure of placing her in the arms of the frantic mother.
+
+But he could and did guide Jack's feet as they sought the rounds of
+the friendly ladder, so that presently the boy, with singed hair, and
+begrimed with smoke, was lifted to the ground.
+
+Hardly had Jack landed than a pair of arms encircled both him and the
+baby; for in that happy moment the mother realized what she owed this
+brave lad; and her heart was brimming over with gratitude.
+
+Such shouts as went up then! Those still coming to the scene must have
+thought the wearers of the fire hats had succeeded in running a line of
+hose into a position where victory was assured.
+
+Again the bucket brigade got busy, working with renewed zeal, though
+but little hope of saving any portion of the big building now remained.
+But every one was roused up to fever pitch by the excitement of the hour.
+And Jack's valiant work had helped inspire them to renewed deeds of
+endeavor.
+
+Paul led his chum away, for Jack was almost exhausted. Then came Mr.
+Stormways on the run, having just learned what his boy had done. He
+seized Jack in his arms, and shed tears over him; though at the same time
+his heart must have swelled within him with satisfaction that one of
+his brood had acquitted himself so well in a crisis that called for a
+cool head and nerves of steel.
+
+The flames kept on eating into the old building. It was now doomed, and
+the fire laddies confined their efforts to saving any furniture that
+could be carried out.
+
+Paul called his scouts around him, at the request of the old minister.
+They were rather a sorry looking group, though just as full of a desire
+to assist as ever. The fine new uniforms were bedraggled with mud and
+water. Several had holes burned in their coats, and that of Jack was
+a sight to behold.
+
+But who cared? After all, the uniforms were but an insignia of their
+connection with a great organization. New or old they stood for a
+principle; and gallantly had Stanhope Troop No. 1 responded when the
+need arose.
+
+The old and highly respected minister, whose heart was filled with a
+great love for the rising generation, shook hands with each and every
+scout, declaring that he was proud of the privilege.
+
+"Don't mind the soiling of your new uniforms, lads. Every mark found upon
+them to-morrow must serve as a badge of honor to the wearer. After this
+it will be the tried and true scout who can point to a burnt hole in his
+smart coat, and say 'I got that the night of the great fire up at
+Bradley's!' And what shall I say of this fine member of your patrol who
+so bravely risked his own life to save that of a mother's baby? Only that
+his own mother has reason to thank God to-night because of such a son. We
+all love him!" and a tear fell on Jack's hand as the old man squeezed it.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI
+
+THE FIRE TEST
+
+
+"All here, Paul!"
+
+Jack saluted as he said this, and smiled to see the look the scout leader
+gave his scorched and discolored uniform.
+
+Although Jack had spent an hour and more that morning trying to clean up
+his suit and leggins, they showed many signs of the hard service to which
+they had been put on the previous night.
+
+Several of the fellows carried cameras. They had signed for the
+photographic test, and hoped to get some fine views of the troop in
+action. These would possibly be entered for competition when the other
+commands in the county lined up to strive for leadership in the last
+great event--the winning of the banner.
+
+Presently the town clock struck the hour.
+
+"Fall in!"
+
+Two by two they marched out of town. People came to the doors to watch
+them; and many a girl waved her handkerchief vigorously. But there was no
+response. Much as some of the lads might have liked to raise a hat, and
+send back an answering salute, they had already learned how to keep their
+eyes to the front, on penalty of being given bad marks that might tell
+against them later on.
+
+More than one parent looked to see how the boy nearest their hearts bore
+himself. Proudly they watched the long double line swinging down the
+street, keeping excellent step, considering how little time they had had
+for drill.
+
+Other boys there were who stood on the corners and mocked. Of course
+these were the followers of Ted Slavin, envious of the popularity already
+attained by Paul's patrol. Some of them had been at the fire, and
+witnessed the deed of daring carried out by Jack Stormways. Jealous of
+the other troop they tried to taunt them by various cries; but without
+success.
+
+However, most of them did not venture to tag after the marching corps.
+They knew that even the wonderful patience of these fellows would have
+its limit, and that a sudden turn might be made upon the tormentors that
+could hardly prove pleasant for the minority.
+
+Out of the town limits they went, still keeping step. Ted and Ward
+trailed behind, but there was no more taunting done.
+
+"They mean to follow, and see what we are up to," said Jack, when he came
+alongside the leader again.
+
+"Well, we can't stop them from doing that, I suppose. The woods are free
+to all. Let them look. If they can pick up a few pointers, well and good.
+When we lead, you know we can afford to laugh at those who follow,"
+returned the other.
+
+"Sure, because they'll never catch up with us in a year," laughed Jack.
+
+For a full mile they continued, never once breaking ranks.
+
+"We're nearly there, fellows. You're doing fine, I tell you. Keep it up
+through to the end. Why, you march like veterans already!"
+
+In this fashion did the scout leader warm every heart, and cause those
+who were beginning to tire of the jaunt to grit their teeth, and resolve
+that nothing must be allowed to interfere with the completion of the
+march.
+
+"Left wheel!" came the command, as the van drew abreast of an opening
+where a wagon road entered the woods.
+
+Still those two curious ones trailed in the rear, determined to ascertain
+what it was that took the Fox Patrols out of town this day.
+
+Presently, surrounded by the giant trees, still green with their summer
+foliage, Paul gave the command to halt and break ranks.
+
+Immediately the twenty-six lads began fraternizing. Those owning cameras
+started to look around for openings where some promising view offered.
+But most of the scouts clustered around the leader, eager to hear what
+the programme of the day would embrace.
+
+"First comes the fire test. There are a dozen fellows who have come
+prepared to qualify for that. And I think we shall have an interesting
+competition. Here, all who have hatchets get busy, and cut wood."
+
+Paul himself led the way, for he delighted in using the little camp axe
+which he often "toted" into the woods, when hunting or camping.
+
+The sound of chopping soon resounded through the timber, and by degrees
+quite a pile of wood had been accumulated. But all this was simply to
+loosen up the muscles of the competitors; for they were not to be allowed
+to use any of this fuel, which was for the main campfire.
+
+Once this had been started, Paul distributed a dozen tin kettles that had
+been brought along. These were all of the same size. Moreover, they had a
+plain mark two-thirds of the way up, which was to limit the amount of
+cold water from the near-brook which they must contain.
+
+"Here are five matches for each one of you. Every fellow is placed on his
+honor not to have a single other one in his possession. You are not to
+use any kind of paper in kindling your fires. Just imagine that you are
+adrift in the wilderness, where a newspaper is never seen. And in the end
+when a kettle begins to boil the owner of it must shout and raise his
+hand. I will have inspectors appointed whose duty it will be to see that
+all is fairly done."
+
+"Don't we get more than these five matches?" asked one of the
+contestants.
+
+"That is all. And remember, that if two are tied when the quart of water
+boils, the fellow who can show the most _unused_ matches comes in ahead.
+That is a valuable point, for it proves that he knows how to conserve his
+resources. A match is sometimes of priceless value to a man lost in the
+big timber."
+
+"Tell us again what we must do, Paul."
+
+"Form a line right here. When I say 'go,' every fellow dart off to some
+place he has in mind. With your hatchets you are to chop wood, and get a
+fire started as quick as you can. Then place your kettle on it, and keep
+on adding fuel until the water boils. I will time every contestant
+myself, and keep a record. But this is just a preliminary trial. We'll
+have another later on. Ready, all?"
+
+The twelve contestants lined up, while the others watched operations.
+Even the two outsiders had kept getting closer, so as to understand all
+that was done. And as Ward had his gold watch in his hand it was evident
+that he intended to do a little timing himself.
+
+"He wants to see how our best compares with what some of his fellows will
+do," remarked Jack, to Paul.
+
+"All right. He's welcome. The more the merrier. If they have any fellow
+who is more at home in the woods than Wallace Carberry for instance, I'd
+just like to know it," returned the other, promptly.
+
+"How about you, Paul? I guess Wallace would stand a mighty poor show if
+he ran a race with the head scout," returned the second in command.
+
+"That's something we've never settled yet. Wallace and I must have a
+chance at each other some day; but not yet. Now watch them scurry around.
+Every fellow has his mind made up where he can cut wood easiest. I've
+made them bring in all loose stuff, you see, so that they start on an
+even thing. Here goes!"
+
+Paul raised his hand, and exclaimed:
+
+"Go!"
+
+Immediately the dozen lads darted frantically off. Several came near
+having a collision right in the start, which would have been fatal to
+their chances for winning out; since the water in their kettles must have
+been spilled; and according to the rules of the contest they could not
+refill the same without journeying to the creek, which Paul had made sure
+was fully fifty yards distant.
+
+It was a laughable, as well as interesting sight.
+
+Having reached the various places mentally selected as the scene of their
+intended operations in fire building, the boys set down their kettles,
+and commenced to feverishly whack away at dead branches, or other wood.
+
+In several instances two of them happened to pick out the same place, and
+naturally there was considerable rivalry between them, as well as an
+exchange of remarks intended to irritate and delay.
+
+"Look at Wallace, will you!" observed Jack, presently; "nearly all the
+others have smoke going, but he's chipping away as steadily as you
+please. Why, he seems in no hurry at all. I guess he doesn't want to
+come in ahead!"
+
+"Wait, my boy," laughed Paul. "You don't know that sly fox. He's up to
+all the dodges at fire making, and believes in a good start. Some of
+those smokes never will amount to much, for they just struggle along, and
+threaten to go out because it takes all the puffing the fellows can give
+to keep them alive. Now he's going to strike up. Only one match needed
+with Wallace, you see."
+
+"And how his blaze jumps! You were right; he made sure he had enough fine
+kindling first, before starting in. Now he's adding larger stuff; and
+what's this he's doing with those stones?"
+
+"What do you suppose?" said the scout leader, nodding his head
+approvingly. "Making a little fireplace where he can perch his kettle,
+and have the hottest part of his fire under it. Note also that the
+opening is in the direction of the breeze. That allows the flame to be
+fanned. Wallace will never have to blow out his cheeks and puff to keep
+his blaze going."
+
+By this time some of the contestants were bobbing their heads to
+ascertain just how Wallace had done it; and made haste to follow suit.
+All were willing to take pattern from a past master who knew the wrinkles
+of the game.
+
+One upset his kettle, and despairing of having any show, withdrew from
+the race.
+
+Eleven fires kept on burning, some of them under protest, apparently,
+for they did not give much promise of landing their unlucky builders as
+victors.
+
+"How long is it?" asked Jack, presently, as certain signs caught his eye
+that told him the end was near.
+
+"Just nine minutes; but--"
+
+"Look at Wallace," cried Jack; "he's raising his hat. There goes an
+inspector to see. He nods his head. The water must be boiling; and who
+would have thought it? Hurrah for the Carberry Twin! Look at Ted and
+Ward! They act as if they thought there was some trickery, for they're
+running up to see. I guess they've tried this game, and come in under the
+wire in about fifteen minutes. Hello! there's Bluff calling out. Good
+boy! He's going to run Wallace a race next time. But I'd like to see you
+make the test, Paul?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII
+
+CLEARING SKIES
+
+
+Paul made no reply to this remark of his chum.
+
+Having studied the charms of outdoor life always, he knew that he would
+be placing his friends under a heavy handicap if he ever attempted to
+compete with them in woodlore.
+
+True, just as he said, Wallace was somewhat of an unknown quantity; for
+he, too, seemed to have a deep love for everything connected with life in
+the forest, and never tired of reading books that told of pioneers and
+their ways.
+
+The scout leader immediately started some of the boys along another tack.
+They were given a chance to find a lost trail, to detect all manner of
+signs such as would be apt to tell how long previously some one had
+passed that way; and to discover where the tracks came out of the creek,
+upon the bed of which the unknown had walked quite some distance.
+
+Of course, Paul had made the trail himself in the morning, running out
+here on his wheel so as to prepare the ground. And when they all failed
+to find out just how the party had left the creek, since the marked
+tracks did not seem to appear anywhere along the banks, he pointed to
+where the limb of a tree hung down over the water.
+
+"That's the ticket!" cried Bobolink, excitedly. "See, fellows, how it's
+skinned where his shoes scraped along it."
+
+"As sure as shooting he climbed up into that tree!" declared one,
+excitedly.
+
+"Then scatter, and examine the ground around the trunk!" said Paul.
+
+A minute or so later a happy whoop announced that one of the searchers
+had discovered the wished-for signs; and away the whole troop went on
+a trot, following the leader.
+
+Meanwhile the photographers managed to get in some of their efforts,
+possibly unbeknown to the rest. Exposures where the subjects are
+unconscious of their posing always turn out best; since they avoid
+stiffness, such as ruins so many otherwise interesting pictures.
+
+Here, with the woods for a background, Paul, acting by agreement as
+temporary scout master, drilled his followers in scout law, sign, salute,
+and the significance of the badges which they wore, all of them, of
+course, of the tenderfoot type, since few had as yet started to qualify
+for any higher plane.
+
+Signal flags had been brought along; and a class in semaphore work proved
+that some of the members of the troop were making rapid progress along
+that line. They had mastered the Morse code, too; and had the occasion
+arisen might have sent messages over the wire, although probably none
+save Paul could have received the same, unless the words came painfully
+slow.
+
+The afternoon passed almost before they realized it; and more than a few
+declared that the sun must have dropped like a plummet, when they found
+twilight creeping upon the forest.
+
+Both Ted and Ward had long since gone away, as though disgusted. They had
+tried to sneer at the work of Stanhope Troop No. 1; but every one knew
+this humor was assumed; and that secretly they were eating their very
+hearts out for envy.
+
+No doubt there would be a hot time among their followers, when the
+leaders endeavored to drive them to beat the record Wallace Carberry
+had set in his fire starting, and water-boiling test.
+
+"Suppose you come to supper with me, Paul," suggested Jack, when they
+were more than half way back to town, with the double column moving along
+like clockwork, every right leg thrust out in unison, as though forming a
+part of a well-regulated machine.
+
+Paul looked quickly at him when Jack said this.
+
+"Oh! I can see through a millstone, when it has a hole in it," he
+remarked.
+
+"Which is one way of saying that you can guess I have a motive in asking
+you?" returned the other, smiling queerly; "well, I have, in fact,
+several. In the first place my mother told me to ask you. I rather think
+she wants to pump you about that affair last night. Father wouldn't tell
+her all she wished to know. Then again I'm still all broken up about
+those lost coins; and I thought perhaps you might have guessed the answer
+to the riddle."
+
+"What's that? More of them gone, Jack?" asked Paul, lowering his voice,
+so that the two scouts at the tail end of the line might not hear.
+
+"Don't know yet. Didn't have the nerve to go up into my den since this
+morning. To tell the truth that place has lost all charm for me. Whenever
+I find myself there I get to shivering, and looking around, just like I
+half expected to see a ghost step out, and pick up one of those miserable
+coins right before my very eyes--ugh! it's horrible to feel that way, and
+I used to be so fond of my den, too."
+
+"Oh! I hope and expect you will be again, Jack, when we've settled this
+little thing. You say none of them were ever taken in the night?" said
+Paul, earnestly; while his knitted brows told how much he felt concerned
+over the mystery.
+
+"Certainly not. Always in broad daylight. That's the queer part of it,"
+returned the other, promptly.
+
+"Sure, seeing that they always go in the daytime, and when you're away
+from home, too. Anybody else going to be there to-night?"
+
+"To supper--oh! no. Karl went off after breakfast, to visit our uncle for
+a few days before school commences. I took him to the train myself, and
+then mustered up enough courage to climb up there, and once more count
+the coins," went on Jack.
+
+"Six there then, eh?" asked Paul.
+
+"Just as last night. And I purposely left the door unlocked."
+
+"Both door and window open in the bargain?" asked the other; at which
+Jack looked puzzled.
+
+"Of course; though that wouldn't matter at all; for any fellow could turn
+the knob, and walk in," he replied.
+
+"But the door was open, just like a plain invitation to enter, should
+anybody think of going up to see--say that again, please," continued
+Paul.
+
+"Well, I do say it again, though I can't understand why you should make
+that a point worth mentioning. Still, I have confidence in you, Paul. If
+anybody can get at the root of my trouble it's going to be you, old
+fellow."
+
+"I hope you prove a true prophet. As for myself I'm not saying anything
+just yet, one way or another," smiled Paul.
+
+"Yes, but I really believe that you've found out something that gives you
+a pointer, Paul. Your face tells me that. You're a wonder about following
+a trail in the woods. And I believe you see light in this darkness around
+me!" and Jack looked eagerly into the face of his chum as he said this.
+
+"All I'm going to confess is that I believe I'm on the trail, and that
+it seems to be getting warmer the further I go. Just hold your horses
+a little while longer, Jack, and perhaps I may be able to tell you
+something."
+
+"The way you smile gives me new courage, old fellow. Oh! I will be so
+glad if only it turns out all right. But here we are at the smithy. Shall
+you dismiss the troop here, Paul?"
+
+"Yes. The boys must be pretty tired after last night's work, and this
+hike; as well as the many stunts they went through with," and the
+temporary master scout presently gave the order to break ranks, and head
+for home.
+
+"Drop in at my house so I can tell my folks not to expect me to dinner,"
+said Paul, as they approached his home.
+
+There was not the slightest objection to the programme as arranged. His
+parents trusted Paul fully, knowing that, while as fond of fun as the
+next lad, he never did things likely to get him into trouble.
+
+"Now, first of all," remarked Paul, after they were indoors again; "let's
+go up, and make sure that anything has happened."
+
+The door to Jack's den stood wide open, inviting any one to enter.
+
+Jack had a match lighted in his hand, and with this he quickly touched
+the wick of a lamp. Paul heard him draw a long breath as he approached
+the spot where the little box lay upon the table desk at which stood the
+chair used by the owner of the den when taking his leisure here.
+
+He bent over, and seemed to be counting the coins. They dropped back into
+the receptacle one by one, and with such a ringing sound that even Paul
+was able to keep tally. Then Jack turned an anxious and white face
+around.
+
+"Paul, there are only four here. Two more have gone!" he said.
+
+"Yet you came up here and counted them; you are positive of that?"
+demanded Paul.
+
+"I counted them, and there were six. Five times I did it, to be sure; yet
+you saw that there were only four just now?"
+
+"You came up here after you saw Karl off on the train?" persisted his
+chum.
+
+"Yes, after I returned from the station. But what makes you ask that?
+Tell me why you are grinning so, Paul? I know I'm awfully dull just now,
+but who could blame me under the circumstances? Please speak up!" Jack
+insisted.
+
+"Why, don't you see, this clears Karl completely. Six here while he was
+riding away on the train this morning; and two taken when he is fifty
+miles away! Don't that satisfy you it wasn't your brother, after all,
+Jack?"
+
+And Jack dropped down in that chair, letting his head fall in his hands,
+while a great joy overspread his face.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII
+
+CARLO DOES HIS TURN
+
+
+"Paul, you're a wizard, I do believe!" said Jack, after a bit, as he
+looked up at his chum.
+
+"Well, I hardly think so. This thing was easy; and ten to one you'd have
+thought of it sooner or later. For how could Karl have anything to do
+with the bad business while he was up at your uncle's?" laughed the
+other, with his customary modesty.
+
+"But if not Karl, then who got my old coins?" persisted Jack, smiling
+now.
+
+"Well, I'm not quite ready to say. I've got two ideas I'm chasing after
+now. Give me just a little more time on that, will you, old fellow?"
+replied the visitor, as he dropped down on a cot, and let his eyes rove
+along the exhibit of college colors illuminating the walls.
+
+He drew the little box that held the coins toward him. When Jack was not
+observing, Paul took the contents out, one by one, and seemed to be
+examining them closely. He even scratched one with his finger nail, and
+the result appeared to please him, for he chuckled softly. Evidently he
+had made a discovery which he deemed important.
+
+Jack, having finished some little task with which he had busied himself,
+came back to his chum.
+
+"See here, Paul," he remarked; "I'm not going to ask you to tell me who
+it is you suspect; but do I know him?"
+
+"Sure," replied his chum; "and perhaps after we've found out the
+wonderful secret, you may even find it in your heart to look on it as
+a joke, and forgive him."
+
+"You don't say? Perhaps, though, I might hardly feel like forgiving a
+fellow who would be mean enough to sneak up here so often, and take my
+old coins. Think of the ugly feelings he's made me have toward my own
+brother. I'll never look Karl in the eye after this without feeling
+conscience-stricken. I don't know about forgiving him so easy as all
+that," grumbled Jack.
+
+"Oh! well, don't cross a bridge till you come to it. That's a good motto
+for you and for me. Perhaps there are times when I feel the need of it.
+Perhaps there's one right now," and Paul shrugged his shoulders as he
+spoke, half laughingly.
+
+"There, I knew that something had gone wrong with you lately. I've
+watched you when you thought I wasn't looking, and I've seen you frown.
+Suppose you take your old chum into your confidence, Paul? What's
+happened? Any trouble at home? Are you bothered over the Boy Scout troop
+we've been organizing? Is it about your school affairs?"
+
+Paul shook his head each time the other brought forward a suggestion.
+
+"You're a most determined fellow, Jack," he said, good naturedly; "and
+perhaps I hadn't ought to speak of such a thing to anybody; but we've
+been chums so long, and misery likes company, you know."
+
+"Then you _are_ in trouble; and you mean to confess to me? Thank you,
+Paul, for what you say. I don't think I ever had any cause for worrying
+that I didn't come straight to you for comfort. And I always got it,
+too."
+
+"Even when you and Dorothy had that nasty little spat that began to look
+serious until I just happened to find the note that made all the trouble,
+and forced Eli Kosmer to confess he wrote it. You remember that time,
+Jack?"
+
+"I guess I do. Dorothy often speaks of it to this day; for we're good
+friends, and always will be. But see here, why do you just happen to
+mention that business? Oh! I begin to see now," added Jack, as Paul
+turned red in the face, and laughed in a rather constrained way.
+
+"I shouldn't wonder but what you did. I'm sure I've denied every other
+cause you could think of," he said, sighing heavily.
+
+"It's Arline then. She's been doing something. Yes, I remember now that
+I saw her out riding with Ward Kenwood only yesterday. Say, that dude has
+been saying something that wasn't true about you, Paul, I'd just wager
+anything. He's gone and poisoned her ears with a yarn. It'd be just like
+the sneak!"
+
+"Just go slow, Jack. You're saying something that you can't prove. Of
+course I believe myself that Ward wouldn't stop at anything like that;
+but without the least proof I can't accuse him of it," Paul said,
+severely.
+
+"But you could ask Arline?" his friend went on.
+
+"Could I? Well, when a girl chooses to turn me down without a hearing,
+and even smiles when she drives past me in the company of a fellow she
+knows I detest, and whom she has often said she disliked, what then?
+Think I would so far forget myself as to get down on my knees, and beg
+her to take me back into favor? Bah!"
+
+"Is it so bad as that then? Oh well, there are other girls just as pretty
+as Arline; and you've always been a great favorite with them, Paul; but
+hold on, why not let me try to straighten this thing out? You've helped
+me all right; and tit for tat is fair play."
+
+"H'm! how do you think you could do anything, Jack? I don't suppose you'd
+care to go straight to her, and ask her point blank what I'd done to make
+her treat me so cruelly? I shouldn't think of allowing that at all?"
+
+Paul tried to display an air of indifference; but it was poorly assumed;
+and his chum knew full well that he was much more pained at these strange
+actions on the part of Arline than he cared to admit.
+
+"Oh! there are ways and ways. For instance, you know that Dorothy is one
+of the crowd of high school girls Arline goes with. Ward's sister Mazie
+is another; and that might account for her being at his house so much.
+Now, suppose you let me tell Dorothy. She'll keep it a dead secret, and
+in some way manage to get a confession. Say you will, Paul!"
+
+"Have it your own way, old fellow. I'm just about ready to wash my hands
+of the whole business. Besides, I've really too many irons in the fire to
+be bothering over the silly notions of girls."
+
+It was bravely put, but did not deceive Jack even a little bit; for he
+happened to know just how very fond his friend was of the particular girl
+in question.
+
+"All right, then. Consider that settled, and I won't say any more about
+it until I can report progress," remarked the latter.
+
+"Let's talk of other things than my poor affairs. You insisted on
+knowing; and wouldn't take no for an answer. Hello! there's Carlo asking
+to come in again. Shall I let him past the door, Jack?"
+
+"Why, of course. This is his den as well as mine. I keep sugar on tap, so
+as to put him through some of his paces. Here Carlo, how's your sweet
+tooth coming on?" and Jack snapped his fingers in a peculiar way.
+
+Immediately the educated dog squatted on his hind quarters, sat upright
+with his forepaws drooping appealingly, and waited, cocking his eyes in
+a humorous way at his young master, who had opened a drawer in his desk.
+
+"Just one piece left. Somebody else likes sugar as well as Carlo, I
+guess. Well, here you are, now. On trust, boy, on trust!"
+
+So saying he laid the piece of sugar upon the nose of the dog, balancing
+it so there could be no falling off.
+
+Carlo, knowing what was expected of him, sat there like a drum major,
+quivering with eagerness, yet not daring to move as long as he failed to
+hear the command.
+
+"Say, isn't he a sport, all right, Paul? Don't he sit up like a soldier?
+Look at his eyes fixed on me. Did you ever see such agony?"
+
+Paul was laughing now.
+
+"He's speaking with his eyes, and begging you not to stretch it out too
+far, Jack. Have a little mercy on the poor beggar. Look at his tongue
+coming out and reaching up. I think he just wants to taste that sugar.
+Give it to him now!"
+
+"Well, Carlo knows that he can't expect to have anything on trust; but
+it's a different thing when it's paid for!"
+
+With the last two words, spoken in a natural tone, Carlo became
+galvanized into sudden action. He had received the cue for which he was
+waiting so patiently. Immediately he made an upward spring; the lump of
+sugar was thrown into the air, and as it came down one quick snap secured
+it, after which there was a crunching of canine teeth, and a look of
+bliss appeared on Carlo's dog face.
+
+"There's the supper gong. Come on down to the bathroom and wash up, Paul!
+And you come, too, old dog. No more sugar here; see, the drawer is empty.
+Carlo never comes up here without sniffing at that drawer, and looking at
+me knowingly. Go ahead, Paul, and I'll put out the lamp."
+
+So they went downstairs, and after a while sought the dining room, where
+Paul met both parents of his chum, as well as a gentleman who was
+visiting Mr. Stormways.
+
+"Mr. Jared Pender, an old schoolmate of mine, and with whom I made
+several voyages abroad years ago," said Mr. Stormways. "He is in the
+employ of the Government now, and has to make visits all over the
+country, you know."
+
+Paul had once met a gentleman who was a post-office inspector, and
+somehow took it for granted that Mr. Pender might be engaged in some
+similar business; at any rate it concerned him not at all he concluded,
+just what the gentleman's private affairs might be, and he gave the
+subject little thought.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX
+
+THE WARNING OVER THE WIRE
+
+
+After supper the two boys once more ascended to the snuggery near the
+roof.
+
+There was no further reference made to either the disappearance of the
+old coins, or Paul's little heart trouble with his girl chum.
+
+They had a number of books loaned them by the good old minister and which
+were full of interesting facts connected with the wonderful Boy Scout
+movement, especially over in England, where it originated.
+
+Paul was deeply interested in picking out all features that would appeal
+to American lads. Until they had found the right party to take the
+position of troop master he wished to play the part of scout leader in
+such fashion that no one could pick a flaw with his management.
+
+Usually it is some adult to whom this important position is entrusted
+from the start; Paul, however, had long been known to be so deeply
+interested in many of the branches which concern life in the open, that
+his mates were only too glad to have him occupy the exalted position of
+leader for the time being.
+
+When they knew as much as Paul did, they believed they would be well
+qualified to pass for a first-class scout's assignment.
+
+So Paul, with the assistance of his comrade, was selecting many
+interesting competitions. By means of these the boys could be tested as
+to their knowledge of those things so important to the boy scouts.
+
+He made many charts showing the different footprints of wild animals, as
+well as those of the domestic cat and dog. By following the tracks of
+a rabbit a most interesting as well as instructive story could be made
+out. It was possible just from the marks on the ground, or the snow, to
+tell how the animal had been frightened into wild flight, by what sort of
+enemy it had been pursued, where the swoop of owl or eagle had brought
+specks of blood upon the leaves or white snow, and finally the picked
+bones of poor bunny would reveal the secret of the windup of the chase.
+
+So, in every case, the student of nature could weave a story out of
+the marks discovered. It was so in the days of the Indian, when old
+Leatherstocking and his long-barreled rifle were leading factors in the
+life of the wilds. Daniel Boone and his pioneers used to read such signs
+as easily as any boy might the pages of this book. And the deeper any lad
+dips into such fascinating studies the more he wants to learn.
+
+When half past nine came Paul said he must be going.
+
+"I've had a jolly evening of it, Jack, and enjoyed every minute with you.
+When we get the boys together again we can have half a dozen competitions
+going on at once," he said as he arose and stretched himself.
+
+"That's so," replied the other, following suit; while even Carlo arched
+his broad back, and prepared to follow them downstairs; "and the best
+of this thing is that the more you go into it the greater it gets. I'm
+fairly wild to keep it up."
+
+Just as the boys reached the lower floor the telephone bell rang, and
+Jack, being near, stepped over to the small table in the hall on which
+the receiver rested.
+
+"Yes, sure, he's here. Hold the wire," Paul heard him say, as he smiled;
+and then turning to his friend Jack continued: "here, Paul, take hold.
+Somebody wants to talk with you. Says he called up your house, and they
+told him you were over at my home."
+
+Paul of course wondered who could be wanting him so positively that he
+even followed him over to the Stormways house.
+
+"Hello! hello!" he said, quietly.
+
+"That you, Paul?"
+
+"It's Bobolink, I guess," remarked Paul, for the benefit of his chum who
+stood by, listening curiously.
+
+"That's right," continued the voice over the wire.
+
+"What's doing to make you chase me up this way, Number Three?" Paul went
+on.
+
+"That's the trouble; I just don't know for sure. But when I caught Ted's
+voice among the bunch I said to myself, they're up to no good; and I bet
+it's Paul they are laying for."
+
+"Hey! what's that? Who's laying for me, and where?" demanded the startled
+boy.
+
+"Listen, and I'll tell you all I learned. 'Taint much, but I know that
+critter so well that I wouldn't put it past him to try and knock you out,
+so that all our drilling in the woods would be upset, and his crowd get
+an advantage."
+
+"Oh! bosh! What's this you're giving me, Bobolink?"
+
+"Yes, I expected you'd say that. Think I'm stringing you, don't you,
+Paul? But I'm not, all the same. Listen again. Perhaps Ted and two of
+his cronies have gone and dressed up in some old Hallowe'en toggery until
+they look like a set of bears or hyenas just to frolic around a bit.
+Well, mebbe they have; but tell me just why they are hiding close to
+_your_ place?" continued the talkative yet determined Bobolink.
+
+"When did you see them?" demanded the other.
+
+"Not more'n eight minutes ago, Paul. Was comin' home myself. Been over
+to Bluff's house to fix up some surprises we expect to play on all you
+fellers later on, and show you what we know about this scoutin' business.
+On the way home I turned in and passed your house. Often come that way,
+you know," and the speaker paused as if for breath, or to hear Paul admit
+the fact.
+
+"Sure. Go on, you slow turtle. You've got me keyed up now to my top-notch
+curiosity. Give us the rest of the yarn," said Paul, eagerly.
+
+"Yarn! H'm! there you go, making out I'm hatching up a story. But take my
+word for it, Paul, three fellers are hidin' in the bushes close to your
+place, and expectin' some one to pass along in the dark. They started to
+jump out at me, and then I heard Ted's voice growlin' to 'em to fade
+away, that it wasn't the right one. Thought I'd just ask you if you could
+explain what it meant. When your mother told me you was over with Jack I
+saw a light, and that's what."
+
+"Well, I'm glad you told me, Bobolink. A good scout is always on the
+alert to do his comrade a clever turn; and I won't forget this. That
+all?"
+
+"But now I've told you, Paul, aren't you goin' to slip around the back
+way, and let them fellers take it out waitin'? Three to one is too much.
+They'll do you up, and make out 'twas only horseplay. Please give 'em the
+slip, Paul. We need you in our business, you know."
+
+"I'll see about it, Bobolink. Thanks, good-bye!" and Paul switched off.
+
+"Well, what's all this about?" asked Jack, as his chum turned toward him,
+with a frown on his face, and a gleam in his eye that the other knew
+stood for grim determination.
+
+"He says there are three fellows lying in wait in the bushes near my
+place, all rigged up in their Hallowe'en toggery; and that he believes
+they know I am over at your house. That's all," remarked Paul, with a
+little nervous laugh, and a clinching of his hands.
+
+"Good gracious! you don't say; three of them waiting to pounce on you!
+Did he seem to know who they were?" asked Jack, looking worried.
+
+"Well, you might guess that easy enough," replied Paul, scornfully.
+
+"Ted Slavin and some of his ugly ducklings?"
+
+"Bobolink says he recognized Ted's voice. And, I suppose my warm friend
+Ward is one of the others. He never loses a chance to get a dig in at
+me."
+
+"I don't know," returned Jack, thoughtfully; "to tell the honest truth I
+hardly think he can be one of the bunch, because his sister took Arline
+home with her to supper; and I guess Ward couldn't be coaxed out while
+_she_ is there."
+
+Paul winced, but said nothing.
+
+"Oh! well, it doesn't matter much after all. They're a lot of cowards, or
+else they wouldn't be concerned in such a low game. You can give them the
+slip by going around the back way," and Jack chuckled at the thought of
+those silly fellows waiting an hour or two for the expected victim who
+never came, and then going home in sheer disgust.
+
+Paul shook his head.
+
+"Now, that's just what Bobolink said, too; but I've made up my mind that
+I'm not going to sneak home, like a dog with his tail between his legs,"
+he said, shutting his teeth hard together.
+
+"You mean that you'll take the street that leads to the front of your
+house? Oh I well, they'll hardly tackle us when they see there are two,"
+remarked Jack.
+
+"And by that you mean you expect to go along. I won't let you do anything
+of the kind. Even if they allowed us to pass by, don't you think they'd
+be apt to take it out of you when you returned alone? No, I'm your
+superior officer, and I order you to stop right here where you belong;
+do you understand, Jack?"
+
+"Well," grumbled Jack, shaking his head as if convinced against his will;
+"I know you too well to try and go up against you when your mind's made
+up; but just the same I think it's a mean shame that you won't let me
+walk home with you. Think if they did jump out at us what a jolly time
+we'd have handing 'em more than they expected."
+
+"Give it up, old fellow. But I tell you what I can do. You remember that
+baseball bat of mine that's been lying over here so long? I'll carry it
+home now, and save you the trouble, thank you," nodded Paul.
+
+"Bully! a good idea. Here it is behind the door. And Paul, don't spare
+the measly bunch; but whack 'em good and hard."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX
+
+SUCH GLORIOUS LUCK
+
+
+Paul walked down the street, swinging the baseball bat carelessly, and
+softly whistling to himself.
+
+He left the street on which his chum's house fronted, and presently came
+to his own thoroughfare.
+
+"H'm!" he said to himself, as he boldly turned in here; "looks kind of
+half dark for a fact; but that always suits fellows up to a mean dodge. I
+musn't hit too hard, for this is an awful tough old bat, that has brought
+me in more than a few home-runs. Well, it's helping me make one now," and
+he actually snickered at the conceit.
+
+As he advanced he braced himself for the expected fray. Of old he knew
+Ted Slavin was a muscular fellow, capable of enforcing obedience from his
+slavish followers.
+
+What was that? He certainly heard the sound of voices a little further
+along. And somehow one of them seemed to give Paul a strange feeling;
+for he was positive that it was a girl's tones; and he recognized them
+too!
+
+Ward Kenwood was taking Arline home; and for some unknown reason chose to
+select this very street as a part of his route, although it was a little
+out of the way.
+
+How strange that they should all come together just at that very
+identical spot, where the trio of ambushed boys were crouching, ready to
+spring out.
+
+Ah! Paul caught sight of something moving close by. He felt sure that it
+must be the concealed fellows, launching their boom. Yes, now he could
+make out their figures as they emerged from the bushes on the jump.
+
+Some one screamed. It must be Arline, frightened by the appearance of
+these ugly, uncouth forms dancing upon the pavement.
+
+Instantly the greatest confusion existed, with the ambushers attacking
+Paul, to shout in consternation when he began to thump them heartily on
+the legs and backs with his baseball bat; and the girl standing there
+trying to shut out, with her clasped hands, the strange sight, seen so
+dimly in the half darkness.
+
+The patter of feet down the street told only too well where her protector
+had gone; but he was valiantly calling lustily for help as he ran.
+
+Met by such a determined opposition, overwhelmed by the shower of punches
+and whacks that seemed to be freighted with painful reminders; and
+startled by the cries of the fleeing Ward, not to mention the little
+shrieks of Arline, the three boys who had been the cause of all this
+excitement soon had enough.
+
+"Skip out, fellers!" roared Ted, as he almost doubled up when the
+swinging bat came with considerable force against his ribs.
+
+The others were only too willing to obey. Away they clattered after the
+fleeing Ward, who, hearing what he took to be a hot pursuit, let loose
+more vigorously than ever, still crying for assistance.
+
+Paul was laughing now, for the comical side of the thing seemed to have
+occurred to him. He took out a match and struck it. As the light flamed
+up, Arline, who had by now ceased her cries of alarm, possibly guessing
+the truth, stared at the face of the victor.
+
+"Oh! Paul! is it you?" she said; and somehow he seemed to understand that
+she was more than glad of the opportunity to make up with him.
+
+Boylike he pretended to hold back, and as the light went out, leaving
+them once more in the gloom, he remarked:
+
+"Yes, those fellows were lying in wait for me. They expected to give
+me a sound thumping; but I was warned and ready. I'm sorry that you were
+annoyed by the row, Miss Blair. I'll stay here with you until your
+company comes back. I think he must have gone for help!" this with some
+bitterness and scorn.
+
+She moved closer to him. Possibly the darkness made her afraid; and then
+again some other cause may have influenced her.
+
+Paul felt her hand on his arm, and was thrilled when she said:
+
+"Please don't mention him to me again. Oh! what a miserable coward, to
+run off and leave a girl that way. Won't _you_ take me home, Paul?"
+
+He could not say anything for a minute, he was so overcome. And perhaps
+Arline thought he must still be angry because she had treated him so
+shabbily of late.
+
+"Please, please do, Paul. I want to tell you how sorry I am for believing
+what came to me in a roundabout way. I'll never forgive myself, never!"
+she went on, clinging to his arms.
+
+Paul could hold out no longer.
+
+"Of course I will, Arline, and glad of the chance. Come on before anybody
+hurries out to see what all this noise means."
+
+So they walked down the street together, Paul with his faithful bat
+tucked under one arm, and a pretty girl clinging, oh! so confidingly
+to the other.
+
+But the boys of Stanhope often made more or less of a noise on the
+streets after dark, being filled with exurberant spirits; and so no one
+thought it worth while to investigate what all the racket meant.
+
+Paul heard what had been carried to the ears of Arline, and had no
+trouble in proving to her complete satisfaction that he was entirely
+innocent of the charge.
+
+"And to think that I allowed myself to believe it," said the girl, almost
+crying; "oh! Paul, will you ever forgive me? Nothing can ever make me
+listen to anything wrong about you again. I wonder if he had a hand in
+hatching that wretched story up. If I knew it I would tell him to his
+face what I thought of him!"
+
+"You mean Ward. Please don't do that. I really can't believe any fellow
+would be so mean and low. It must have been just accident that coupled my
+name with that affair. But I'm satisfied if you say we're going to be
+just as good friends as ever," Paul said, warmly.
+
+"Better than ever, I hope, Paul. I've had my lesson. It will never happen
+again, I promise you," she answered, pressing his arm as she spoke.
+
+So Paul saw her safely to her door, and then said good-night; but Arline
+insisted upon shaking hands with him; and the tingle of his fingers as he
+walked down the street made him laugh with joy.
+
+"What luck!" he kept saying to himself, as he made out to shake his own
+hand; "and what a mess of it Ward made of his chances. He thought to have
+the laugh on me if we met, and here the shoe is on the other foot. Oh!
+I'm not complaining a little bit. Everything's coming my way now."
+
+Nothing further happened on his way home. But when he reached the house
+his father met him with the announcement that Jack was holding the wire,
+and waiting for him.
+
+"On deck there!" he said, briskly, and heard an exclamation of relief.
+
+"How is it, Paul? Anything doing? Seemed to me I heard an awful racket
+over your way; but the nine-forty train was just coming in at the
+station, and drowned it out. Did they tackle you, son?" demanded Jack,
+eagerly.
+
+"Did they? Well, I guess some! Ask Ted," chuckled the one addressed.
+
+"You're laughing, and that tells me you enjoyed the circus. What did you
+do to poor old Ted and his cronies, Paul?" entreated the other.
+
+"I could tell you easier what I didn't do to 'em, Jack. I gave the boys
+about every style of punch and jab I could think of, and with my home-run
+bat too. Oh! make up your mind they're going to be a sore lot in the
+morning. And if you run up against Ted, just sniff the air for arnica. My
+word for it, he'll empty the bottle to-night on his bruises."
+
+"Bully! bully! and again bully! I would have rushed to assist you only
+you made me promise to keep my hands off; and you're my superior officer,
+you see. Besides, I reckoned that with such a hunky-dory bat you'd be
+able to give just pie, which you did, Paul."
+
+"But the half hasn't been told yet," went on the narrator.
+
+"What! do you mean there's a sequel to this story?" asked Jack, burning
+with eagerness apparently, to hear.
+
+"I guess that's what it is. Listen. Ward was just taking a young lady
+home. He chose to pass along our street, though now he wishes he hadn't;
+for they arrived just when Ted and his backers jumped out of the bushes.
+She screamed, and her escort sprinted down the street for help. After I
+had punched and pounded the three Hallowe'en left-overs from last year
+until they faded away, I had the pleasure of seeing the young lady to her
+door, yum! yum!"
+
+"Hurrah! and I bet all differences are patched up again between you!"
+cried Jack.
+
+"Everything is lovely, and the goose hangs high," sang Paul.
+
+"Meaning poor old blundering Ward. He showed himself for a coward to
+the girl he's sweet on. Oh! my, oh! me, how is the mighty fallen.
+Congratulations, good friend, and then more of them. So the clouds have
+disappeared along your horizon, just as they did on mine. I only wish I'd
+had a hand in clearing your skies."
+
+"So you did. You kept that baseball bat of mine until the right minute
+came. Only for that my name might have been mud," laughed Paul.
+
+"And if you'd only open your heart now, and give me a hint about the
+fellow you believe has been playing that trick on me with my old
+coins--"
+
+"Just you wait a little. It's coming soon. So-long!" and with a click the
+connection was cut off.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI
+
+THE MEETING
+
+
+"How are you, Paul?"
+
+It was Mr. Jared Pender who came out of the post-office as Paul happened
+to be passing the next day, and addressed the boy he had met on the
+preceding evening at the house of the Stormways.
+
+"Why, how do you do, Mr. Pender? Been at work, I see," replied Paul, with
+a suggestive look in the direction of the post-office.
+
+The tall dark gentleman looked a little perplexed, and followed Paul's
+glance. Then an expression of understanding passed over his face.
+
+"Ah! yes, I see, you are a good guesser, Paul. But please do not mention
+the fact to any one. We Government officials sometimes have to work
+_sub rosa_, as the saying is; that means without any one knowing what we
+are at. You understand, Paul?"
+
+"Yes, sir, I guess I do; but I hope there's nothing wrong here at our
+post-office. We all think the world of Mr. Mygatt, and his clerks," said
+Paul.
+
+"Oh! don't mention such a thing. We have to investigate many times just
+to discover how smoothly things are going on. Isn't that Jack's dog
+coming out with a package of papers in his mouth? Has he actually been
+down for the mail?" went on the gentleman.
+
+"That's Carlo, all right. Sometimes they give him the mail when there are
+no letters, as you see."
+
+"And will he carry the bundles home safely, without stopping to play with
+other dogs, or to fight?"
+
+"Oh! Carlo knows his duty. He never forgets what is expected of him.
+There, sir, look at him halting for a minute at the open door of the
+butcher shop, to wag his tail, and peep in. It smells mighty inviting to
+him, I wager; but will he go in? Not much. See, there he goes along,
+heading straight for home. If another dog picked a fight with him, Carlo
+would lay that package down, give the cur a good licking, then pick the
+papers up again, and trot along."
+
+"I see you know his traits well, Paul," remarked the gentleman, smiling.
+
+"Some of them, but not all. He's a great dog, all right, and Jack's fond
+of him."
+
+"I suppose money couldn't buy him, then?" suggested Mr. Pender.
+
+"It would be useless to try it, sir, I think. Will you stay long with Mr.
+Stormways?"
+
+"That I cannot say. My business may be completed in a day, and it may
+keep me in this vicinity for a week. That depends on circumstances. You
+have been around more or less, Paul; do you happen to remember seeing a
+large red touring car, with a khaki-colored cover, and occupied by two
+men, one of whom has a glass eye?"
+
+Paul stared at the tall gentleman, as though he thought at first the
+other might be joking him; but seeing not a ripple of a smile on the dark
+face, he changed his mind.
+
+"Why, no, sir; I can't seem to remember seeing that particular car. Of
+course red ones are common; but most of them have black tops, if any at
+all. Some friends of yours, Mr. Pender?" he remarked, naturally.
+
+The gentleman allowed just a twinkle to appear in the corners of his eyes
+as he nodded his head, and said:
+
+"Well, er--yes, very particular friends of mine, Paul, and whom I would
+be glad to see again right now. If you happen to sight such a machine,
+and I am still at my old friend, Stormways, I wish you would let me know
+about it."
+
+"I certainly will, sir; and perhaps you'd like me to speak to the
+gentlemen, and tell them how anxious you are to see them?" Paul went on;
+at which the other gave a laugh.
+
+"I see you are on to me, my boy. You guess that such is the very last
+thing I would want you to do. Now, I'm going to take you into my
+confidence, Paul," he went on, bending his head lower, and giving a quick
+glance around.
+
+"Yes, sir; that's very kind of you, Mr. Pender," said the lad, smiling.
+
+"Oh! I don't know. I have an axe to grind in doing so; for I believe
+that you can be of assistance to me. The two men in that motor car are
+criminals, for whose capture I have come to this part of the country,
+Paul."
+
+"Goodness! that sounds interesting, sir. What have they been doing?"
+asked the young scout leader, with boyish curiosity brimming over.
+
+"I won't tell you that, Paul; but they are wanted by the Government. And
+sometimes we agents have to go about our business with great caution, in
+order to discover enough evidence on the suspects to convict. So, above
+all things, I do not wish to alarm these clever gentlemen unduly, lest
+they manage to hide, or get rid of the only burden of proof. In other
+words, as a common expression has it, I want to get them with the goods
+on. You understand?"
+
+"Yes, sir; I think I do. And if I see or hear anything about that red
+car, I'll tell you. But is it true that you and Jack's father were chums
+long ago?"
+
+"That's the positive truth, my boy," replied the agent, nodding; "why, we
+took several voyages together, and had lots of queer adventures. I never
+dreamed that my wild old friend Alan would settle down to this humdrum
+life, as a lumber merchant, and the head of a family. But I suppose it
+all came of his meeting a girl. And after knowing his fine wife I don't
+blame him a bit; though I've kept right along in the same old groove, and
+see more or less of adventure."
+
+"He's a mighty fine man, and they think lots of him here," declared Paul,
+who was amazed to learn that his chum's parent could have, once upon a
+time, been reckoned a wild blade.
+
+Paul walked on with his lips puckered up as if whistling, and his face
+filled with the new interest that had taken possession of him.
+
+He had read accounts in the papers of Boy Scouts being concerned in many
+useful enterprises; and he wondered whether he and his patrol might not
+find a chance to assist the officers of justice in rounding up a couple
+of rogues who had apparently broken the laws of the land.
+
+Then other things came up to draw his attention elsewhere.
+
+He ran across boys on the street, who asked dozens of questions about the
+many interesting features of the new organization.
+
+These were often lads who had begun to think of uniting with one of the
+rival troops; and Paul was only too glad to give them all the information
+in his power.
+
+They wanted more recruits, provided the applicants were of the right
+sort. Those their committee rejected might find solace in joining forces
+with Ted's crowd, who, not being at all particular, would receive them
+with open arms.
+
+That afternoon there was another meeting in the woods, at which every
+member of Stanhope Troop No 1, as they now determined to call their
+organization, did his best to be present.
+
+Paul had given several of the boys duties to perform, that were part and
+parcel of the grand scheme to whip his company into first-class shape in
+a shorter time than it had taken any other troop.
+
+Reports were received and filed of numerous things done which would count
+in the final summing up. These were to be accompanied by vouchers from
+the persons interested, which could be filed away for inspection when the
+committee appointed by the giver of the fine banner looked through the
+records of the several patrols competing for the prize.
+
+Andy Flinn and Philip Towns reported that they had cleaned up the
+beautiful green in front of the town high school, and which was generally
+known as the campus. It was kept mowed by the town authorities; but
+numerous scraps of paper and trash, blowing hither and thither in the
+wind, gave it an unsightly appearance.
+
+"Never forget that you have taken our campus under your protecting care,
+Numbers Three and Four of the Gray Fox patrol," said the head scout,
+after reading the report; "of course it is always your privilege to
+enlist smaller boys in the job, if you can do so without actually hiring
+them. That is expressly forbidden."
+
+Then came Wallace Carberry and Tom Betts, telling how they had started
+a crusade to cover the entire town with receptacles to contain stray
+rubbish. Half a dozen cans had already been ordered, each one of which
+was to have in startling red letters the significant picture of a staring
+eye, and followed by the words, "Eat Trash!"
+
+"We've got a contribution box ready, and every scout is privileged to
+drop in pennies and nickels that he has earned. No others accepted; and
+no larger amount at one time from any boy desired. Have already enough to
+pay for two of the cans; and hope to increase the order soon!"
+
+Cheers greeted this announcement. Others, who had heard about the good
+work being started by Numbers Seven and Eight of the Red Fox patrol,
+arose to announce that their mothers had promised to throw all sorts of
+opportunities for earning money in their way, if it was to be devoted
+to such a fine purpose.
+
+"The Women's Club is to bring this thing up at its next meeting. My
+mother says it shames them to know that the boys of the town are taking
+such a leading part in cleaning it up," said Bobolink, when he found an
+opening.
+
+"Who's next to report?" asked Jack, who had charge of this end of the
+meeting; while the "honorable secretary" made notes, and filed away the
+various papers submitted.
+
+Immediately all eyes were turned toward Bobolink and Bluff, which team
+was known as Three and Four.
+
+Bluff started to rise, when a groan greeted him; but he was not dismayed.
+
+"Our r-r-report will be d-d-delivered b-b-by my c-c-confederate!" he
+simply said, and subsided with a grin, as though he thought he had
+hoodwinked his friends.
+
+Bobolink arose slowly. When he chose he could be very tantalizing; though
+in an emergency none might excel him in speedy action. But when he had
+something to tell that he knew was being eagerly awaited, he liked to
+keep his chums in suspense just as long as he dared.
+
+Immediately all sounds died away. Every one seemed to know that Numbers
+Three and Four had been delegated to attempt an actual scouting trip that
+morning, into a hostile territory, so as to learn what progress a rival
+camp was making in the various degrees of efficiency.
+
+They had already heard about Manchester, and a few believed that they
+would have little difficulty in excelling that town when it came down
+to an actual test.
+
+With Aldine it was different. From all sources had come hints to the
+effect that the troop in that town was working most faithfully, with an
+eye on that coveted banner. And every scout in Paul's patrol felt wild to
+know how much truth there might be in these reports.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII
+
+SCOUTING IN EARNEST
+
+
+"Hurry up, old molasses! Winter's coming."
+
+"Hit up the pace, won't you, please, Bobby?"
+
+Bobolink grinned. This was apparently just what he liked. When, however,
+he saw a restless movement among some of the more impatient, as though
+they were stooping down to gather chips to shy at him, he knew the time
+had come to open those sphinx-like lips, and speak.
+
+"Mr. Chairman, ladies and gentlemen," he began, when a roar interrupted
+him, so that he pretended to hastily remedy his error--"I mean just
+gentlemen; I have the honor to report that your committee waited on the
+brothers of the Aldine troop, though unbeknown to their keenest scouts,
+and watched the entire operations at their called meeting this morning."
+
+"Good! Fine! Keep it up, Old Leatherstocking!"
+
+"We learned that they are working like mad to excel in all the arts that
+interest the scouting fraternity. Competitions were being run off in
+every branch of the woodcraft business. We saw fires started, camps made,
+trails followed, boats mended, fish flies tied, rods that had been made
+by single members; we heard of all sorts of clever things that were being
+done in Aldine that would give the troop marks in the grand round-up. We
+listened to splendid speeches from the really efficient scout master, and
+our hearts warmed within us toward the gallant foe against whom we must
+soon be pitted; just as our bones ached because we had to squat there
+high up in that tree over their camp, like a couple of roosting monkeys."
+
+"Hear! hear! Bully for our monkeys! They're all to the good!" shouted
+some of the more demonstrative boys, waving their hats wildly.
+
+Bobolink stopped to give a few melancholy dabs at his thighs, just as
+though they still ached from the long service in the tree; while Bluff
+managed to emit a series of sympathetic groans.
+
+Then the orator took up his theme again; and when Bobolink chose he could
+even run Wallace Carberry a warm race on the school rostrum.
+
+"Some people might think that it was hardly fair in us to spy on our
+rivals; but we are running our troop under strictly military rules. It's
+always fair to try and find out what you are going to be up against when
+entering a competition. We are badly handicapped, because both of these
+other troops in the county have been working all summer; and we've got to
+come up from behind in our attempt to capture the prize. That's right,
+isn't it, fellows?"
+
+"Sure! We only want to know if they're going to make a big fight; or
+whether they expect to have a walk-over. Besides, I happen to know that
+there was a Bald Eagle from Aldine watching us work yesterday. He had
+a field glass, and was hidden where he could see all that went on."
+
+It was Jud Elderkin who made this astonishing declaration; and what he
+said created quite a stir among the assembled scouts.
+
+"All right. We didn't go there expecting to steal any of their thunder,
+fellows," said Bobolink.
+
+"Of course not," asserted the nearest scouts.
+
+"Well, how did you find it?" demanded William.
+
+"I didn't see that they had anything on us. Of course they did lots of
+things better, because they've had a heap more experience; but there's
+time between now and Thanksgiving for the scouts of the Stanhope troop to
+get a move on, and shake all rivals out of their boots. That's all," and
+Bobolink made a sudden duck to get out of the lime-light.
+
+"Hurrah! Well done, Three and Four of the Red Fox patrol! Whenever we've
+got any more climbing to do, we know where to get the monkeys!" cried
+William, with a mock bow in the direction of the blushing Bluff, and the
+grinning Bobolink.
+
+"I congratulate the scouts on the way they carried out their mission. It
+was worthy of the annals of Cooper. May I ask how they learned just where
+the camp of the Aldine Troop was to be pitched?" asked Paul.
+
+Bluff was no longer to be repressed; but sprang erect.
+
+"I d-d-discovered that they always w-w-went to a p-p-particular
+p-p-place; and w-w-when we s-s-saw that noble tree, why, we j-j-just
+l-l-looked at each other, and s-s-shook hands. Then we c-c-climbed up
+before the f-f-first eagle f-f-flew that way. T-t-thank you gentlemen
+f-f-for your k-k-kind attention."
+
+"Wow! he got that in pat, all right. When Bluff makes up his mind to
+hustle he can beat the band. I move a vote of thanks to these most
+efficient scouts," said Wallace, pushing forward.
+
+They were given with a will; after which other reports came to show what
+was being accomplished in numerous lines.
+
+The troop photographers produced their prints, which were passed around
+for examination, and brought forth an abundance of good words. To see
+themselves in the new suits of khaki made many a fellow's heart thrill
+with pride.
+
+"We must have a meeting every day up to the beginning of school,"
+declared the acting scout master, finally; "for these busy Eagles have
+stolen a march on us while we slept; and we've just got to hustle now to
+catch up."
+
+"But we've got some mighty fine things to our credit already, and don't
+you forget it, boys. I haven't heard of a horse being stopped, and a
+child's life saved over in Aldine or Manchester," declared Wallace, with
+a proud glance toward Paul.
+
+"Or any account of the rival troops attending a fire in a body, and
+working to beat the band until their new uniforms were next to ruined,"
+spoke up Nuthin'.
+
+"I guess the boys of Manchester must feel pretty small when they listen
+to the story of how a Red Fox scout walked right into a burning building,
+and snatched up a baby that had been forgotten; hey, how about that,
+fellers?" shouted William, pointing his finger at Jack.
+
+"We're hitting up the pace. We're going strong, and bound to make things
+hustle right up to Thanksgiving Day! Every fellow do his level best to
+bring that banner home to Stanhope!" cried Jud Elderkin.
+
+"We can do it!" yelled half a dozen in chorus.
+
+"Why, its easy money, boys. Just organized, and not a second class scout
+in the troop yet, but look at what we've done. Give us a little time,
+and we're going to make the Beavers and Bald Eagles, and all the rest
+of 'em, sit up and take notice!" avowed Nuthin'.
+
+"And wait until you hear the inspiring sound of my bugle, which I expect
+to have at the next meeting," said Bobolink, proudly.
+
+"Huh! that won't h-h-hold a c-c-candle to my d-d-drum!" declared Bluff,
+waving his arms wildly, as though he could already imagine the great fun
+in store when that instrument came to hand.
+
+And so the meeting broke up, with the scouts disbanding for the day. Some
+lingered to try once more the various stunts that interested them most.
+It seemed as if every fellow's heart might be wrapped up in the desire to
+win that coveted trophy, and bring the banner to his home town.
+
+Strange to say there had not been a single mention of the other Stanhope
+organization. None of them believed that Ted and Ward would be able to
+make the least show in the competition. They knew the habits of these
+fellows only too well. As a rule, they never won, save through trickery;
+and in the eyes of the committee appointed by the donor of the banner,
+anything that smacked of double dealing would be rigidly barred from the
+game.
+
+Paul and Jack, as usual, walked home together, arm in arm.
+
+As the recognized leaders in the movement that had so lately struck the
+boys of Stanhope, they must always have much to talk over.
+
+Besides that, they had their own personal affairs to discuss.
+
+"Well," said Jack, finally, when they found that they were alone, the
+nearest comrades being far behind on the road; "the four coins are still
+there in the snug little box, Paul."
+
+His companion looked quickly at him.
+
+"You carried out my suggestion then?" he asked.
+
+"Yes. The door has been closed and locked all day. Even the window was
+shut down and fastened," replied Jack.
+
+"That made the little den as tight as a drum, eh?" laughed his chum.
+
+"I should say it did. If any one got in there to-day he would have to
+slip through the keyhole," came from Jack.
+
+"Unless he happened to have a duplicate key," Paul went on, seriously.
+"And since you found the four coins there that could hardly have
+happened. Sure you counted four, are you?"
+
+"That's positive," returned his companion; "but to tell the truth I did
+get a little scare. At first I counted only three."
+
+"But you found the fourth all right, Jack?"
+
+"Oh! yes," replied the other. "It was gummed fast to the side of the box.
+I had to scrape it off before I put it back. But when do you mean to tell
+me what you know about this strange affair, Paul?"
+
+"I guess to-morrow," answered his chum.
+
+"Bully for you. I'll be glad to get it off my mind. What do you want me
+to do, Paul, in the meantime?"
+
+"Nothing," came the ready response.
+
+"Shall I leave the den shut up as it is, then?" demanded Jack.
+
+"Until I see you in the morning, yes," laughed Paul. "Don't be surprised
+if I pop in on you unexpectedly. Perhaps I may not want any one to see me
+go in your house, and so I might come by the back door."
+
+Jack looked at him in a whimsical way and shook his head.
+
+"You've got me guessing, all right, my boy," he declared.
+
+Paul instantly changed the subject, after a way he had.
+
+"The boys are getting on fine in that water boiling test, aren't they?
+Four had it in nine minutes, and Wallace beat his own record by nearly
+half a minute. That is going to be one thing Stanhope must excel in," he
+said.
+
+"Yes," remarked Jack, falling in readily enough with his companion's
+desire to "talk shop," "and those photographs couldn't well be beaten.
+What a lot of new and interesting facts some of the trackers have dug out
+of the trails they followed. The papers read fine. Paul, I really begin
+to believe we're going to make a strong bid for that banner."
+
+Paul did not reply, and on Jack turning his head to ascertain why, he
+found his chum staring at a red automobile that had just whizzed past!
+
+It had a khaki-colored top!
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII
+
+THE RED CAR
+
+
+"What's the matter with you, Paul?"
+
+Jack asked this question, for of course he could not understand why his
+chum should take such a deep interest in any automobile that passed them
+on the road.
+
+"Did you happen to see inside that red car as it went by?" asked Paul,
+turning eagerly on his friend.
+
+"Why, er--yes, I did chance to be looking over your shoulders just then;
+I was a little afraid the wheels might graze you," admitted Jack.
+
+"Do you know the machine, then?" asked the other, in some suspense.
+
+"Don't believe I ever saw it before; but then, what of that? Don't dozens
+pass along here every day, that come up from the city? It's common to see
+a strange car, even if it has got a khaki-colored top, instead of a plain
+black one. Hey, Paul! what ails you?" demanded Jack.
+
+"It wasn't Colonel Strange, was it?" asked the other; for the gentleman
+mentioned happened to possess a red auto.
+
+"Of course it wasn't, because his car has a black top; and besides,
+neither of the two men was the fat colonel," replied Jack, immediately.
+
+Paul had learned something already.
+
+"Then there were two men in it, you say?" he went on, casually, as though
+much of his interest had abated.
+
+"Yes, and one of them was staring at me to beat the band. Perhaps he has
+lost a boy, and thinks I look like him. Don't let him kidnap me, will
+you, Paul?" went on Jack with pretended anxiety, as he clung to his
+companion's arm.
+
+"Say, look there, the car's stopped. I believe they're waiting for us!"
+declared Paul, in some excitement.
+
+"Well, that's what gave me such a scare, you see. That's why I'm shaking
+all over, Paul. But in union there is strength; and I'm going to hang on
+to you, if he tries to coax me to get aboard. I'm not in the long lost
+class."
+
+"Oh! come along, and let's see what they want. He's leaning over the top
+now, and keeps beckoning to us."
+
+Paul started on a run. He could feel his heart beating very hard; indeed
+it was strange, he thought, that his companion did not hear it pounding
+away, and make some sort of remark.
+
+The chance that he had been hoping for seemed to be within his grasp. Not
+only had he discovered a car that answered the description of the one
+mentioned by Mr. Pender; but the occupants were plainly desirous of
+obtaining information of some sort, and had selected him and Jack as the
+ones most likely to give it.
+
+As he hurried on, he tried to control himself. It would never do to show
+more than natural curiosity in his actions. If these two men were the
+ones the gentleman stopping at Jack's house wanted to find, they must be
+smart enough to read his secret, unless he took warning.
+
+No sooner had he come abreast of the car than looking up he found himself
+staring into the dark face of a man who had a cruel look about him. What
+thrilled Paul, however, was the fact that one of his eyes was undoubtedly
+artificial. He had guessed this fact when Jack stated that the party
+_stared_ so at him.
+
+All doubt was gone now, and he understood that by the strangest of luck
+he had come upon the parties for whom Mr. Pender was searching. The
+official must have known that they were headed this way for some purpose
+or other.
+
+"Live around here, bub?" asked the man with the glass eye, as he looked
+piercingly at Paul.
+
+"Yes, sir; in Stanhope," replied the boy, surprised himself to find how
+steady his voice turned out to be under the trying circumstances.
+
+"How far ahead is that place?" continued the man.
+
+"About half a mile, sir. You can see the steeple of the Methodist church
+after you turn that bend ahead," and Paul pointed with a steady finger.
+
+"Huh! I wonder now if either of you happen to know a Mr. Solus Smithers?"
+and as he put the question the man shot a quick glance toward his
+companion; at which the shorter party nodded his big head, and grinned
+approvingly.
+
+Paul turned to his chum.
+
+"Say, Jack, isn't that the name of the man who took the old Grimes farm
+up at the milldam?" he asked, though he knew positively that it was so.
+
+"Smithers--why, yes, I reckon it is. Is he a tall man, with a hooked
+nose; and does he dip snuff?" queried Jack, innocently enough.
+
+"That's Solus to a dot. You see, boys, he's from North Caroliny, where
+even the wimmen use snuff, only they rub it on their teeth with a stick.
+Now, mebbe one of you boys would be so obligin' as to direct us to the
+shortest way to where this old mill stands," continued the man with the
+bogus orb.
+
+"I guess the quickest way to get there is to drive through Stanhope, and
+pick up the Deerfield road on the other side. It's only a few miles off;
+but the road turns lots of times to avoid the hills."
+
+Paul noted that the taller man seemed to invariably look to his companion
+for support. It was as though they worked in common, and neither wished
+to become responsible for action without the other's assent.
+
+After an interchange of low words, which the boys did not catch, the
+spokesman once more turned around. He held a silver half dollar in his
+hand.
+
+"Here's something for your trouble, boys. But look here, ain't there
+another way to get to that old abandoned mill without going through the
+town? To tell you the truth we lost our number away back, and might get
+hauled up because we can't show a tag on the back of the car."
+
+Paul had already noticed this significant fact. It is the business of a
+scout to take note of even trifles. One of the tests of memory is to look
+in at a store window for just one full minute; and then, going away, make
+out as complete a list of articles it contained as is possible.
+
+And still, he did not believe that this was the true reason these men
+disliked passing through Stanhope if it could be avoided. Perhaps they
+had some suspicion that Mr. Pender was visiting there; and did not want
+to take chances of his meeting them face to face.
+
+"Sure there is," broke in Jack, who saw no reason why he should not
+believe the artful excuse given; for Jack did not know all his chum had
+learned about these parties; "after you pass the bend yonder, just turn
+to the left. You can't miss the road, for its got a big maple tree right
+at the junction. We call that the Grapevine Road, because it twists and
+turns so; but it will fetch you out right at the old dam, mister."
+
+Many a time had Jack himself walked along that same winding path when
+coming home with a string of bass, taken in the mill pond. It was longer,
+to be sure, but there were some fine apple trees on the way; and the walk
+through the dense woods was so much more enjoyable on a hot summer day
+than the open stretch that marked the other route.
+
+The man flipped the coin in the air, and as it fell at Paul's feet he
+felt constrained to stoop and pick it up. To do anything else might have
+aroused the suspicions of the man who stared. And at the worst it meant
+another contribution toward the various funds which the boys were raising
+for many purposes.
+
+Boys as a rule have little objection about receiving "tainted money." And
+while Paul understood that these men had been breaking some of the laws
+of the land, he was not supposed to know the particular way in which
+their money had been gained.
+
+"Much obliged for the information, boys; and please don't report us in
+town as being short a license tag. We'll get a new one just as quick as
+we can. So-long!"
+
+As the shorter fellow started the machine his companion waved his hand at
+the two chums on the road, both of whom of course returned the salute.
+
+Jack watched his friend out of the corner of his eye as they walked on.
+Perhaps he was entertaining a dim suspicion that Paul might be keeping
+something from him.
+
+But he asked no questions; and the other volunteered no information. A
+scout is supposed to know when to hold his tongue, especially when in
+the company of his superior officer; and so Jack let the matter drop.
+
+"See, they've turned in, all right, Paul," he said, as he pointed to the
+broad marks of heavy tires leaving the main road, and passing under the
+spreading maple that stood at the junction with the Grapevine.
+
+"That's so," returned Paul, apparently not in the least interested; and
+yet as they continued to walk briskly toward home he frequently turned a
+wistful look over his left shoulder, as in fancy his thoughts followed
+those two strangers up to the old farmhouse at the mill pond.
+
+Who was this Solus Smithers? Could he be in league with these two men
+whom the Government expert was sent to watch? Paul remembered that he had
+heard several people talking about the man and his ways. He seemed to
+have plenty of money, yet he made no effort to farm the place he had
+rented that summer.
+
+As soon as they reached town he started to accompany his chum home,
+hoping to have an opportunity to see Mr. Pender in secret.
+
+Catching sight of that gentleman walking down for the evening mail,
+he made some excuse and broke away from Jack; who looked after him in
+bewilderment, grieved because Paul, for once, seemed to be keeping some
+secret from him.
+
+Mr. Pender presently came out of the post-office. He had a letter in his
+hand, and was apparently much displeased at what it had contained.
+
+"Why, hello! Paul, my boy! Glad to see you. How is the patrol coming on?
+Some day you must allow me to watch your manoeuvers up there in the
+woods. I'm deeply interested in all such goings-on, you know," he said,
+shaking hands, heartily.
+
+"Yes, sir; I'll ask the boys for permission to invite you," began Paul.
+
+"Were you looking for me, my boy?" asked the other suddenly, his keen
+eyes having doubtless detected something in the manner of the young
+scout master that gave him his idea.
+
+"Yes, sir, I was," replied the one addressed.
+
+"I wonder now if, on the top of bad news from Washington, you could be
+about to bring me new hope. Have you learned anything you want to tell
+me, Paul?"
+
+"I've seen that red auto, and talked with the gentleman who has the glass
+eye!" said the boy, trying in vain to keep his eager voice from trembling
+with excitement.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV
+
+A CALL FOR HELP
+
+
+Mr. Pender swooped down and seized Paul's hand, which he squeezed so
+heartily that he almost made the tears come to the boy's eyes.
+
+"That sounds good to me, my boy. Please tell me about it. Where was it at
+the time? And do you think it can have gone beyond Stanhope? I hope you
+didn't give the gentleman any idea that you had ever heard a word about
+him or his car?"
+
+"Oh! I give you my word, sir, that they never dreamed I knew a thing
+about them. A scout has to learn how to keep his feelings in check, you
+see, Mr. Pender. I acted just as naturally as Jack did; and he knew
+nothing."
+
+"Well, tell me about it now, please."
+
+Stopping at the corner, Paul started in to relate all the incidents
+connected with that meeting on the road. The gentleman hung upon every
+word. He certainly looked pleased, and Paul realized that he had done
+something worth while. To his credit be it said that never once had he
+entertained the thought of receiving any sort of reward for his services.
+
+"All this is of the greatest importance to me, my boy. I am frank to
+tell you that the successful capture of those two men you have so ably
+described, thanks to your scout training, will mean much to me. And
+depend upon it, if success rewards my efforts, I shall certainly remember
+that you gave me very valuable assistance in the undertaking."
+
+"Then you think I might have a reward, don't you, Mr. Pender?" he said.
+
+"I most positively do, and right now and here I'm willing to promise
+you--"
+
+"Wait a little, Mr. Pender. There's only one thing you could do to pay me
+for the little assistance I have been to you. Some time later on, after
+you get back to Washington, write me a letter on your official paper,
+stating just what aid the Boy Scouts of the Red Fox patrol were to you
+in furthering the ends of justice. That's all any of us could accept,
+sir."
+
+"By Jove! I'm proud to know such boys, and proud to shake hands
+with the fine scout leader at their head!" exclaimed the Government
+representative, as he cordially thrust out his digits.
+
+But "once bit, twice shy"; and Paul shook his head as he caressed his
+fingers.
+
+"Excuse me, won't you, Mr. Pender; but once at a time is enough. I expect
+to have a lot of use for my right hand to-night, sir," he laughed.
+
+"Oh! pardon me, my dear boy!" cried the other, "I was forgetting that it
+wasn't the hand of a tiller of the soil I squeezed. I'll be more careful
+next time. But your news was so unexpected, coming at a moment when I had
+received some depressing information by mail, that I quite forgot myself.
+Please continue to keep these facts to yourself for a little while
+longer, Paul."
+
+"Yes, sir; until you give me leave to speak I won't tell anybody, not
+even my own folks at home. And if we are so fortunate as to get that
+letter from you, Stanhope Troop will have a big advantage over other
+competitors. You know, sir, we are competing for an elegant banner; and
+the other patrols have been working all summer; so that we've just got to
+get busy if we hope to have a show in."
+
+"I don't care if they've been going along a year, I'd be willing to wager
+that Stanhope will win the prize. That shows what faith I put in the
+leader of the Red Fox patrol. Nothing is going to ever hold you back. I
+can see the spirit glowing right now in your eyes," and Mr. Pender nodded
+his head wisely as he said this.
+
+Paul turned red under the praise.
+
+Mr. Pender was apparently anxious to know all he could about the place
+around the abandoned mill.
+
+"Have you seen this party named Solus Smithers?" he asked, presently, as
+they walked slowly on in company.
+
+"Yes, sir; several times. He's a very tall and thin man, with a face I
+never liked. He's driven some of us boys away from the mill pond this
+last summer. We have always fished there, and nobody ever said a word;
+but he acted as if he had an idea some of us would steal his old house.
+He even brought out a gun once, and warned three fellows off. After a
+while no one cared to go up there. Some of the boys even said they
+believed the old man was daffy, and that he might shoot if anybody made
+him real mad."
+
+"Oh! yes; I see; and he didn't want trespassers on his farm, eh? Does the
+mill pond stand on the ground he's rented?" asked the gentleman.
+
+"Oh! yes, and all the ground around there. It must cover four hundred
+acres, but most of it is in woodland, you see, sir," replied Paul,
+promptly.
+
+"Can you tell me what Smithers looks like, Paul?"
+
+"He's very tall, stoops quite a lot, uses snuff like they do down in
+North Carolina, and has small blue eyes and a queer nose. Some of the
+boys say it looks as if it had been broken. That man in the red car knew
+it when Jack called it a hooked nose, sir."
+
+Mr. Pender slapped his thigh as though in great glee.
+
+"Well, this is great luck, sure enough. From your description I believe
+that I know this Mr. Solus Smithers, though that isn't his name at all.
+It keeps on getting better and better, the deeper I grub. And if all
+turns out well, I shall owe you a heavy debt, my dear boy."
+
+"Make it up in that letter then, sir. The stronger the better. And if you
+happen to need any further assistance don't hesitate to call on us. We've
+got some dandy trackers in the Red Fox patrol; and it would have to be a
+pretty smart fellow to pull the wool over their eyes, sir."
+
+"Good for you, Paul," said the gentleman, warmly; "always ready to sound
+the trumpet for your comrades; but if the truth were told I reckon I'd
+find the scout leader at the top of the bunch when it came to a knowledge
+of woodcraft."
+
+"Please don't, sir," pleaded Paul.
+
+"Jack has been confiding to me all about how you've always been deeply
+interested in outdoor life," went on Mr. Pender; "but as you have told
+me all you know about this red car that has gone along the Grapevine
+Road, headed for the old mill pond, I believe I'll have to leave you.
+Take my hand, won't you, Paul? I promise to be good, and not put on
+pressure, though my heart is very warm toward you, lad."
+
+So Mr. Pender hurried away.
+
+Paul turned back. He had noticed an air of unusual excitement inside the
+post-office, and his curiosity was stirred. While Mr. Pender and his
+strange mission was in the foreground, of course, he had been able to pay
+little attention to anything else; but now that this was shelved he could
+not resist the inclination to return, and ask what made the people stand
+around in knots as though exchanging views.
+
+He discovered Ted Slavin and three of his friends jabbering away just
+inside the door, and heard one of them exclaim:
+
+"Course we will go along; it'd be a big feather in our cap, fellers, if
+we'd be the ones to bring him back."
+
+"Yes, send out word for the boys to get together, Ted. We'll show 'em
+what we fellers that has hunted since we was knee high, know about
+follerin' a trail!" another remarked.
+
+"Let up, you; d'ye want to give the whole snap away? See who's here!"
+whispered Ted; but in such a hoarse tone of voice that Paul could not
+help hearing.
+
+Of course his curiosity was still further aroused. Whatever could have
+happened in quiet Stanhope, to cause all this gathering of people, and
+such earnest consultations?
+
+He saw Chief Billings, who was in charge of the police force in the town,
+leaving the post-office, and noted that a large delegation trailed after
+him.
+
+Could it be possible that the local authorities had in some manner become
+aware of the fact that law breakers were abroad in the land? Was Mr.
+Jared Pender, the Government expert, about to have rivals in the field?
+When those cronies of Ted spoke of following a trail could they have had
+any reference to the track of the wonderful red automobile with the
+khaki-colored top; and occupied by the two parties whom Mr. Pender wished
+to catch, as he said, "with the goods on?"
+
+Paul hoped not. It would complicate things very much; and in the
+confusion the rascals might manage to slip away. Paul had known Chief
+Billings to undertake a clever piece of business before now; but never
+succeed in accomplishing one.
+
+Some one banged into him as he turned a corner in the building.
+
+"Why, hello! Paul, that you?" said a voice.
+
+It was Si Growdy, who claimed to be a nephew of old Peleg, but who had
+never been known to be recognized by the crusty old farmer. He clerked
+in one of the general stores, of which Stanhope boasted several big ones,
+where everything, from a package of pins to a coffin could be purchased.
+
+"What's all the row about, Si?" demanded the acting scout master, as he
+seized hold of the clerk, to head him off; for Si seemed to be in a hurry
+as usual; he worked for a man who was a driver, and had to give an
+account of every minute of his time.
+
+"Ain't you heard nawthin' about it, Paul? Where you ben all this
+afternoon?" was the way the clerk answered one question with another.
+
+"Up in the woods with the scouts, doing stunts. But tell me what's gone
+wrong? Another robbery at the jewelry store; or has some one sneaked
+away with one of the coffins your house carries?" pursued Paul.
+
+"If anybody ever got off with a pin that didn't belong to 'em at our
+emporium, the fact ain't never been known. I've seen the boss chargin'
+customers with the cracker they eat when samplin'. We got orders to make
+light weight if they buy. But about this rumpus; they's a child lost!"
+said Si.
+
+"Who's child?" asked Paul, instantly deeply interested.
+
+"Mr. Boggs' little Willie. The Chief was just in to talk with him. He's
+all broken up over it, because you know, he uses a crutch, and can't help
+hunt."
+
+Paul knew Mr. Boggs assisted the post-master in his duties; and many a
+time had Paul chatted with the pretty little chap who played around the
+building while his father was assorting the incoming mails. Willie Boggs
+had always been a universal favorite. He was the sweetest child in all
+Stanhope, and everybody loved him.
+
+Paul was shocked at the news. Still, he hoped it might not be as bad as
+Si said.
+
+"Where did it happen? How do they know? Who saw little Willie last? What
+has been done to find him?" he fired at the clerk like the discharge of
+a Gatling gun.
+
+"Glory! expect me to tell the hull story, with my boss asettin' there
+inside the store, watchin' the clock, an' dockin' me for every minute I'm
+late? All right, who cares? And besides, Paul, p'raps that troop of yours
+might be useful in follerin' the tracks of poor little Willie," Si went
+on.
+
+"Where, when, how?" demanded the scout master, resolutely.
+
+"This mornin' it happened. Willie went with Annie Spooner to get some
+leaf mould in the edge of the woods, for her ma's flowers. She came back
+just at noon an' sed Willie had strayed away in the woods."
+
+"Did anybody go to look for Willie?" asked Paul.
+
+"Three boys went out to bring him in. They hunted high an' low, but he
+wa'n't there. Then a dozen people set out to search the woods. Just now
+they come back to say Willie ain't to be found high nor low. That stirs
+the big chief some. He 'low he knows how the thing's to be did; and so
+he's agoin' to organize a hunt for the lost child. That's all. Now, let
+me get back to my slave tasks, Paul."
+
+"And night coming on," murmured Paul, as he looked out of the door to
+where people were assisting the crippled Mr. Boggs across the square in
+the direction of his nearby home, where his wife was no doubt waiting
+eagerly for some news of the missing darling.
+
+Si Growdy shot out of the door, and headed in the direction of the store
+where he gave his valuable services daily from seven in the morning until
+late in the evening, for a miserable pittance.
+
+Paul walked thoughtfully out of the post-office. He was tired from his
+exertions of the afternoon; but all that was immediately forgotten when
+he mentally pictured the weeping mother in that little cottage where the
+honeysuckle climbed above the door. Then he thought of the terror of the
+little fellow, wandering about in the great woods with night coming down,
+and all sorts of strange noises arising to chill his blood.
+
+"I'll do it!" exclaimed Paul presently; "the chance is too good to be
+lost. Why let Ted and Ward have the inside track? Just as soon as I can
+send word around we'll test our new system of bringing a bunch of the
+Fox scouts together. And then, if the boys are willing, we'll try and
+discover where Willie Boggs has wandered. It's a glorious opportunity to
+find out if what we've learned is worth having. Here goes then, to send
+out the call for help!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV
+
+A CAMP IN THE WOODS
+
+
+"Why, Paul, what's all this hurry mean?"
+
+"I just want to get a few bites of supper, mother, and then rush off.
+I've sent out the call for a hurry meeting of the patrol. Some people
+call it the emergency signal. Every one of the scouts knows what it
+means. Those who can get out will be gathering here inside of half an
+hour."
+
+"But it must be something very unusual that urges you to do this. You've
+been on the go all afternoon, and I don't know that it is wise to bolt
+your supper in such a style, just to be ready to greet the boys when they
+arrive."
+
+"Mother, you don't understand. Father hasn't come back from his afternoon
+round of visits, has he? Then you couldn't possibly know," went on Paul.
+
+"Know--what, my son?" questioned his mother, seeing that the boy was
+worked up more than usual.
+
+"We're going to organize a searching party. Perhaps some of the scouts
+may be smart enough to get on the track. It's poor little Willie Boggs,
+mother."
+
+"Searching party--Willie Boggs! Is the child lost?"
+
+"Yes, and has been ever since before noon, in the big woods. You see it's
+just beginning to get dark now. Think of the poor little fellow wandering
+perhaps miles off in the woods. What if a storm should come up?" and
+Paul's manner told how he felt.
+
+"But there are no wild animals large enough to injure the child. The most
+he could suffer would be exposure to the night air; that and the fright
+of finding himself alone. Oh! it is a terrible thing though; and little
+Willie is all his poor father has left. It would kill him if anything
+happened," declared the good lady, whose heart was very tender.
+
+"Now you see why I'm in such a hurry to get a bite, mother. Every minute
+might count, for perhaps he is wandering further and further away. You'll
+let Jane get me something in a jiffy, won't you, now?" continued the
+eager lad.
+
+"Gladly, and help her too, after you have told me more. How do you boys
+expect to look for the child in the blackness of those woods?"
+
+"Every scout will carry a lantern, with which we have practiced signal
+wig-wagging until we are able to send messages back and forth. Besides
+that, we can form a long line across the woods, and comb nearly every bit
+of it, looking into every stack of brush and waste to see if Willie has
+lain down. And mother, think if we should just find him, how glad you'd
+be that we went out!"
+
+"Indeed, I should! I shall pray that you succeed, my boy. And it does you
+great credit that you are so earnest in your desire to help others. Sit
+down, and I'll wait on you myself," and Mrs. Morrison bustled away toward
+the kitchen as she spoke.
+
+As Paul was hastily devouring his supper, for he was as hungry as a wolf,
+who should come in but the doctor. And of course he had to be told;
+though Paul's mother took this task upon herself, giving the boy a chance
+to eat.
+
+Through the window Paul could see that already several fellows had
+gathered; and other lanterns were meanwhile coming like giant fireflies
+through the gathering gloom of the night.
+
+The prospect of bringing his scout troop into action for such a good
+cause was particularly pleasing to the boy who temporarily filled the
+office of leader. Spurred to do their very best by a recollection of the
+vows they had so recently taken, the members of Stanhope Troop might be
+depended on to bring credit to their organization.
+
+By the time Paul issued from the house there were a full dozen of his
+chums present. He was glad to see that all the original charter members
+forming the Red Fox patrol were on hand. They happened to live closer
+than others who had joined later; and boys of a particular community
+generally flock together.
+
+Immediately a great hubbub ensued. Those who did not know what all the
+fuss was about had to be "put wise," as William said. And Paul was called
+upon to explain his plans for the tracking of little Willie Boggs, who
+had become as a chip on the torrent, a wanderer in that mysterious
+forest, the end of which few Stanhope fellows had ever reached in their
+wanderings up over the hills.
+
+There were now fourteen present, and Paul determined not to wait for any
+more of the troop to come to time.
+
+"Fall in!"
+
+Down the street they marched, the lanterns flickering as they swung to
+and fro.
+
+No wonder people, rushing to the doors as shouts arose, began to ask
+eagerly if the lost child had been recovered.
+
+"It's the Boy Scouts; and they're going out to join the hunt!" some one
+shouted.
+
+"Oh! they're about a mile behind Ted and his crowd!" jeered one fellow
+who must have had leanings toward the Slavin party; he had been detected
+in cheating so often in every game boys played that for months now he
+found himself left severely alone by decent fellows, and it was reported
+had applied for admission to the patrol Ward and Ted were getting up.
+
+Out of the town, and straight to the spot where the lost boy had last
+been seen Paul led his squad. He knew that it would be only a miracle if
+the many feet that had trod the ground over would have left any trace of
+the child's little shoes; but he still had hopes that the training some
+of his scouts possessed would bring more or less success.
+
+The unique sight of all those lanterns on the road had attracted many
+people, so that when they arrived at the spot Paul had in mind, fully
+thirty followed, a number of them boys who came only to make sport of the
+scouts.
+
+"Spread out, fellows," said the scout leader, quietly, "and examine every
+foot of ground. If you find a single impression of Willie's little shoe,
+give the signal, and I'll come; but hold your places every one."
+
+Immediately the scene became an animated one. Lanterns flashed hither
+and thither, swinging close to the ground; while young eyes searched
+diligently for a trace.
+
+In less than five minutes the signal sounded, and Paul hurried over to
+the one who had given the same. Jack was at his elbow, and between them
+they examined the mark, to ascertain in what quarter it pointed.
+
+Then the advance was taken up in that direction.
+
+Again came the thrilling cry that told of a new footprint that had been
+found.
+
+This time it was Wallace Carberry who had made the discovery. He talked
+so intelligently about it that Paul determined to keep him close by.
+Wallace would be a valuable advisor in case he and Jack disagreed at any
+time as to what the signs meant.
+
+So they went on for an hour, finding a footprint now and then to
+encourage them. These came at more frequent intervals when they got far
+enough away to avoid the trampled soil where the crowd had hunted all the
+afternoon.
+
+Those who had followed were now missing. They had seen that the scouts
+meant business, and did not care to wander so far from town. Hence, Paul
+presently found that he and his patrol had the woods almost to
+themselves.
+
+Several times though he had seen other lanterns wandering around, and
+guessed that these were carried by some of the Slavin crowd, also
+diligently combing the woods in the hope of being the lucky ones to
+find the missing boy.
+
+The chief of police and his party had gone off in an altogether different
+direction.
+
+"How long can we keep this up, Paul?" asked Jack, when they had been
+moving on for two hours, with no end in sight.
+
+"Don't know, but we ought to be able to put our best foot forward just
+as long as that little fellow does, don't you think?" replied the other,
+reproachfully.
+
+"Why, of course, and don't think I'm showing the white feather so early
+in the game. I've made up my mind never to go back until he's found. Why,
+we can camp right in the woods if it comes to it. And that would be a
+bully experience for every Fox in the bunch. Think of having to make beds
+out of branches! Ain't I glad some of us brought our camp hatchets
+along."
+
+"And Jack, it would leave us in a good position to take up the hunt again
+in the morning; for you see we'd be right on the ground where the little
+chap passed along. Suppose you call out again. He might hear, and
+answer."
+
+Jack obeyed, and repeated the name of Willie in a loud voice again and
+again. But only the echoes of the great woods answered. If the boy were
+within reach of that cheery hail he must be wrapped in the sleep of
+exhaustion, and unable to reply.
+
+Finally Jack ceased to call, for he was growing very husky.
+
+The search still went on with unabated zeal, each boy trying to vie with
+his mates in the endeavor to make some new discovery. Paul examined every
+faint print of that little foot, desirous of fixing the time it was made.
+Wallace joined him in this, and it was clearly shown that hours must have
+elapsed since the child passed that way.
+
+"Still, he may be within fifty yards of where we are. Let's keep at it as
+long as we can, and only camp when some are too tired to go on," declared
+Paul, greatly disappointed to think that they had thus far been baffled
+by hard luck.
+
+It was astonishing to see how far the little fellow had wandered; but
+fear always lends wings to the feet; and all the while Willie doubtless
+really believed he must be heading toward home.
+
+And Paul noted another fact that somehow gave him new interest in the
+enterprise. By degrees the trail had swung around to the left, as is
+nearly always the case when grown persons are lost; and the principle
+seemed to hold good in the case of even a child.
+
+In itself this was not strange; but Paul knew that if they kept on for
+another hour the chances were they would come upon the old mill pond,
+nestling in the valley. The fact caused him to remember his friend Mr.
+Pender; to once more mentally see that red motor with the khaki-colored
+top; and to picture the two strangers who had asked him so many
+questions.
+
+Was this really an accident, their being drawn out toward the farm of the
+unneighborly Sol Smithers; or might it turn out to be the working of
+destiny?
+
+He was aroused by a call that he had been expecting to hear for some time
+now.
+
+One of the scouts felt forced to admit that he was "all in." They had
+done manly work to keep up the tramp all this time, being but boys at
+best.
+
+It meant that camp must be made, and the balance of the night spent there
+in the woods, waiting for day to come to renew their search.
+
+Poor little Willie was destined then to pass still more hours, surrounded
+by the terrors of the black and unknown forest. But probably by this time
+he must be so exhausted through his unusual exertions that he was dead to
+the world in sleep; so it would not matter very much.
+
+Soon all was bustle as the fourteen lads began to make ready to spend a
+time in open camp. The sound of hatchets made pleasant music, as branches
+were cut, and beds made close to the fire that had been started.
+
+Some of the smaller lads were so utterly exhausted that they just dropped
+to the ground, and went to sleep. Paul and Jack passed around to see that
+these wornout fellows did not lie too near the blaze; and that they were
+fairly comfortable.
+
+In an hour's time it seemed as though every one were taking solid comfort
+after such rude fashion as could be devised. One of the boys had brought
+his camera along, keen to secure novel effects; and without warning he
+set off a flash that gave him a picture of the slumbering heroes on their
+lowly beds, that would be ever afterwards treasured as invaluable.
+
+At the brilliant illumination several sat up, and one even gave a cry of
+alarm, thinking perhaps that lightning had struck a tree close by; but
+with the coming of darkness again they settled back.
+
+But Paul could not sleep. He was only waiting until some of the more
+restless souls quieted down. Then he and Jack, together with Wallace,
+meant to again tackle the job of seeking for further imprints of those
+worn little shoes among the dead leaves, and in the soft soil under the
+giant trees.
+
+Somehow Paul believed that the hunt was bound to carry them to the very
+door of that farmhouse on the mill pond. He was induced to suspect this
+because the last time they had examined the small shoeprints, the mark of
+a much larger foot had appeared beside it; and after mature deliberation
+he and Wallace came to the conclusion that some man, walking through the
+forest, had discovered the trail of the child, _and was following it_!
+
+He looked around him. As near as he could tell every one of the tired
+scouts was slumbering soundly.
+
+So Paul silently arose, touching Jack on the shoulder, who immediately
+gave Wallace Carberry the signal.
+
+The three uttered no word, but moving softly back from the circle of
+firelight, carrying their almost exhausted lanterns, made ready to once
+more start out into the depths of the wood; with the lonely farmhouse now
+rented by the surly Sol Smithers just half a mile further to the north!
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI
+
+WHAT WOODCRAFT TOLD
+
+
+"There it is again, Paul!"
+
+"As sure as you live we're being followed, boys!" and Wallace allowed his
+voice to rise just above a hoarse whisper when he made this energetic
+remark.
+
+The three were crouching in the bushes.
+
+As yet Paul had not caught a glimpse of the object which seemed to
+disturb both of his friends; but he was looking sharply now.
+
+"Why, yes, I do believe you are right, fellows," he said, calmly.
+
+"Well, you take it mighty cool, I must say," declared Jack.
+
+"Because I see no reason to get flurried over such a little thing, boys,"
+was what the leader replied.
+
+"Little thing, when you know Ted Slavin and a bunch of his toadies came
+up here to get all the glory they could out of this business! Don't you
+understand, Paul, that if they thought they could down us, they'd just as
+lief waylay us in the woods, and put an end to all our expectations?"
+
+This was a very unusual way of talking for Wallace, but it only went to
+show how the boy was worked up over the situation, and made nervous by
+the continuous strain.
+
+"But how do you know those moving figures are Ted and Ward, or even any
+of that crowd?" demanded Paul.
+
+The others hesitated, and finally Jack remarked:
+
+"Well, for a fact we don't know; but you remember we saw signs that even
+you declared proved what I'm saying--that some of those fellows have
+wandered as far as this."
+
+"Yes, that's a fact. I'm not apt to forget it. Now, how many figures have
+you seen dodging along back there, just as if they didn't care to be
+seen--yet?"
+
+"How about it, Wallace?" queried Jack, doubtfully.
+
+"Two, anyhow; I'm sure of that," came the hesitating reply.
+
+"Yes, at least two, Paul," the other echoed.
+
+"And we are three. That's one reason why I don't see any reason for
+getting nervous over the discovery," observed the leader, his voice now
+apparently showing a trace of humor that was bubbling up near the
+surface.
+
+"But where there are two there may be more, Paul?" objected Jack.
+
+"Yes, possibly eight or ten more," went on the calm leader.
+
+"Goodness! and you say there is no need of our worrying?" exclaimed
+Wallace.
+
+"Yes, explain what you mean, old fellow. Eight or ten would give us a
+warm time don't you think?" demanded Wallace, gripping Paul's arm
+fiercely.
+
+"Hardly, if they were all sound asleep around a dying campfire, dead to
+the world," quoth Paul, chuckling now.
+
+But the others uttered low but vehement exclamations.
+
+"Don't you see what he means, Wallace?" asked Jack.
+
+"Sure. What a couple of fools you and I were," came the scathing reply.
+
+"We've been followed by two of our own boys. They must have watched us
+crawl out of camp, and not wanting us to have all the fun, here they come
+creeping after us. What shall we do, Paul?" Jack queried in the other's
+ear; for the flitting figures were now very near.
+
+"Open our arms and welcome the recruits. If they're just bound to join
+forces with us, why should we make any kick. I'm glad of it."
+
+Then raising his voice a little, Paul continued:
+
+"Hey! there!"
+
+They could hear the murmur of voices. Evidently the two shadows were
+talking it over, and must have arrived at some quick conclusion, for
+presently same a hail.
+
+"Hello! Paul, Jack!"
+
+"It's Bobolink, for one," muttered Jack, immediately.
+
+"Then it's a sure thing William is tagging along," said Wallace.
+
+"Come on, both of you fellows. No danger!" called Paul, softly.
+
+After that assurance the shadows boldly advanced, and quickly joined the
+three who stood under the spreading oak.
+
+It proved just as Jack and Wallace had predicted, for the newcomers
+turned out to be William and Bobolink. They were chuckling, as though
+considering it a good joke.
+
+"Thought you'd give us the quiet sneak, and gobble all the glory
+yourselves, hey?" said the latter, as they bustled up; "but William and
+myself had it all fixed. We were on to your curves, all right."
+
+"Yes," broke in William, just there; "didn't we see you with your heads
+together a lot, and wasn't we wise to what was in the wind. Bobolink was
+awake, and it was my turn to snooze. He gave me a kick in the seventh rib
+that made me think a comet had dropped on me. But we showed up game. Now,
+what's doing, fellows; and do we get a grab at the scout?"
+
+"If you both feel like trotting around a whole lot more, why you're just
+as welcome as a shower in spring," asserted Paul, promptly.
+
+"I should say, yes," declared Jack; "and if the whole bunch could stand
+the racket we wouldn't have crept away like we did. But most of the poor
+fellows are all in, and dead tired, and we thought it would be a shame to
+invite them to hike some more."
+
+"Did you bring your glim along?" asked Paul.
+
+"Our lanterns? Well, William didn't want to, but I insisted. I knew that
+if we missed you fellows, and lost ourselves in the bush, they'd come in
+mighty fine for company," returned Bobolink.
+
+"Then let's light up. After that we'll spread out, and try to find the
+trail," with which remark Paul set the example.
+
+Presently five lanterns glowed like giant fireflies.
+
+"Think it lies in this direction, Paul?" asked William.
+
+"I'm sure of it. After that man's track came alongside the print of the
+little chap's shoe, there was no more wandering about; but it struck
+straight ahead. That told me the trail was heading for a house," came the
+ready reply.
+
+"A house. Say, is there any other place up here but the old farm
+alongside the mill pond? I don't seem to remember any," remarked
+Bobolink.
+
+"And that's just where I expect we'll bring up sooner or later," observed
+Paul.
+
+"Then why not put for the old place at full speed right away?" suggested
+William, always impetuous.
+
+"To do that we'd have to drop the trail again. And besides, what does
+an hour, or even two of them, matter in the end? Slow but sure is the
+successful scout's motto, boys. Hello I look here, what's this?"
+
+Paul thrust his lantern down close to the ground. Bending over to look,
+the others could see the plain impression of a child's little shoe. It
+was heading due north, just as many similar tracks had been of late.
+
+"Now if you look at this you'll see it's nearly crushed out by the big
+print of a man's foot; while just beyond the child has stepped into the
+impression made by the man. That can mean only one thing; the two were
+going on in company, and for a minute he let go the little one's hand, so
+that first the child was in front, and then behind."
+
+"I guess you're right, Paul. But see here, what does this mean? The small
+track has dropped out altogether," remarked William.
+
+"That is where the big fellow picks the boy up in his arms, and is
+carrying him," said Wallace, before Paul could answer.
+
+"Right you are, that is just what happened. To tell the truth I don't
+know why he didn't do that before. He must have been toting some bundle
+along, and couldn't well carry the boy too. Come back a bit. I want to
+look around," and Paul retraced his steps until he had reached the spot
+where a confusion of tracks met his gaze.
+
+He followed the man's trail a few paces, and found himself under a tree.
+Raising his lantern he carefully examined the bark of the trunk, and
+finding several fresh scratches, pursued his investigations still higher.
+
+One accommodating limb grew rather low. In fact a man could, by reaching
+up his arms, clasp it easily; and that was what Paul believed had been
+done.
+
+"Give me a push, somebody; and then hand up my lantern," he said,
+clasping his arms about the tree as well as he was able.
+
+Ten seconds later William was handing him up the light; after which Paul
+began to ascend slowly, looking about him as though constantly on the
+watch for signs that would tell another had preceded him.
+
+"All right; it's here. I'm coming down, fellows," he soon called out.
+
+Reaching that friendly lower limb he held something in view.
+
+"Take hold of this, Bobolink, and handle it carefully, because we don't
+know what's in the package. It might be dynamite!" he remarked.
+
+"Oh! I hope not!" exclaimed the one in whose arms the bundle reposed; and
+he did not look any too happy at the prospect ahead.
+
+"Don't be silly," said Paul, as he dropped beside them. "But whatever
+it may be, we might as well hide it in a new place. Then if the fellow
+should come back here to get it, he's going to meet with a
+disappointment, that's all."
+
+"But what d'ye think it is?" argued the one who clasped the large package
+in his arms, though with evident reluctance.
+
+"That is none of our business just now. It may be honest enough, and we'd
+get into a peck of trouble if we peeked. So let's just chuck it in some
+hollow stump as we go along, and muffle our trail behind us so he can't
+find where we put it. Later on I think I know some one who will be glad
+to look into what it contains."
+
+"Perhaps I do too," remarked Jack; and the two chums looked at each
+other, with mutual astonishment marked on their faces.
+
+"Oh!" remarked Paul, "are you on, too? Did he tell you the secret?"
+
+"I happened to pick up an envelope he dropped, and wondered whose it was;
+so I went around, asking. He laughed when I came to him, and told me
+a little bit of news that surprised me. But Paul, he asked me not to
+breathe a word, even to you. That was a mean joke, when you knew all
+along," Jack complained.
+
+"Remember the red car on the road, and the two men in it?"
+
+"Oh! did they have anything to do with his coming up here? Yes, now that
+I think of it, you were pretty much excited over that same red car. You
+guessed something then, didn't you, Paul?"
+
+"He had asked me to watch out for a red car with a khaki-colored top,
+that might have two men in it, one of them owning to a glass eye."
+
+"Good gracious!" said Jack; "that tall chap did have a bogus eye, for a
+fact. And when you left me in town you hurried around to the post-office
+to find Mr. Pender, didn't you? I see it all now. He never came home for
+supper, as far as I know. I reckon he must have got a rig of some sort,
+and put out for the mill pond. But what about Solus Smithers--they asked
+after him, you know?"
+
+Paul pointed to the marks on the ground.
+
+"Unless I'm wrong those are his tracks. I noticed that he had big feet at
+the time he came out and ordered us to clear away from the pond, and
+threatened us with his gun. Yes, perhaps he got home to find visitors
+waiting for him," Paul observed, just as though he could read all these
+things from the trail.
+
+"Then we go on, do we?" asked Bobolink, eagerly.
+
+He had been listening to what passed between his two comrades, and while
+it was partly Greek to him, enough of the truth filtered through to give
+him a creepy sensation, as though cold water were being poured down his
+back.
+
+Bobolink was no coward though, and while he shivered it was more through
+a delicious frame of mind over the chance of an adventure than because
+he felt fear.
+
+"Straight on, as long as these lanterns hold out. I see yours has begun
+to flicker already, William. There, it's puffed out; and my own isn't
+near as strong a light as it was."
+
+Paul seemed to be a true prophet, for inside of five minutes the lanterns
+"gave up the ghost," the last to expire being that of Jack.
+
+"What's doing now?" demanded Jack.
+
+"Gather up all the matches in the crowd. Then I'll strike them one by
+one," was Paul's immediate response.
+
+This emergency torch lasted for a little while. Finally the last match
+was gone, and still they were some distance away from the mill pond.
+
+"Listen," said William, suddenly; with a thrill in his voice; "whatever
+do you suppose that is?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII
+
+TED FINDS SOMETHING
+
+
+"Sure it wasn't an owl?" asked Paul, when a full minute had passed away,
+without their hearing a repetition of the sound that had reached the ears
+of his comrade.
+
+"Didn't sound like it. I kind of thought it was somebody calling for
+help!" said Bobolink, quivering with the suspense caused by the
+situation.
+
+They stood in a group, listening eagerly. The night wind stirred the tops
+of the tall forest trees softly, and even this gentle sound boomed on
+their strained nerves like the strokes of a bass drum.
+
+"Oh! there! Didn't you hear it that time?" whispered Bobolink.
+
+"I guess we did," replied Paul; "and you're right in saying it is
+somebody shouting. But all the same I don't feel sure it was a call for
+help. Let's remember, fellows, that Ted and his crowd must be somewhere
+about up here. And you know from past experiences what dodges he's up to
+when he wants to play a trick on anybody."
+
+"Do you mean he'd like to draw us off by shouting that way, while some
+of his fellows went along to the farmhouse, and got the lost boy?" asked
+William.
+
+"That would be just like Ted. He's as full of tricks as an egg is of
+meat," Jack took it upon himself to say at this juncture.
+
+"Well, what are we going to do about it, boys?" asked Wallace.
+
+"I leave it to Paul; whatever he says ought to be good enough for me,"
+replied Wallace.
+
+"And me," came from the others without hesitation.
+
+"Thanks, fellows. I hope that my plan will prove the best after all. But
+don't blame me if I should make a mistake. Let's head for the road, which
+I take it ought to be somewhere over yonder," remarked Paul, pointing
+through the darkness.
+
+"The road, eh? I see, you mean that once we get on that we'll have it
+easy all the way to the pond. That suits me all right. Count William in."
+
+"Yes, seeing that our lanterns are out, and not a match in the crowd, I
+guess the sooner we get our feet planted on the highway, the better for
+our noses. I've barked mine already against a tree, and another dose will
+spoil my classic beauty," grunted Bobolink, rubbing tenderly at the spot
+in question.
+
+"Then come along, the rest of you," said Paul, starting off.
+
+"Seems to me it's getting lighter," announced Wallace, presently.
+
+"Mebbe our eyes are used to it, that's what," Bobolink remarked.
+
+"Mine are closing up right fast, I warn you, fellers," said William; "and
+before long it's going to be a case of the blind leading the blind. That
+branch took me across the face. Hey! ain't that the same old shout?"
+
+"Sounds like it; but much nearer," returned Paul, with a vein of
+uncertainty in his voice, as if he might be commencing to doubt whether
+they were doing the right thing in paying no attention to the calls.
+
+"Oh! I guess I know what it means," remarked Jack; "I've been trying to
+make it out all along. That's sure a different voice. Some of Ted's crowd
+have got separated, and they're just trying to get together again. You've
+heard quail calling, after being flushed and scattered. How, Paul?"
+
+"Perhaps you've struck it, Jack. Anyway, we are on the road here, and had
+better push straight along to the pond first."
+
+"Right enough," uttered Bobolink, as he broke through a cordon of brush,
+and jumped out on the highway, though it might be only an apology for a
+road after all, being scantily used; "and after that experience it's
+going to be something big that drags me into the woods again."
+
+The little group stood there for a minute to recover their wind, which
+had been more or less exhausted in the last desperate push through the
+dark woods.
+
+"Ready to move on, fellows?" demanded Paul, who had apparently not
+changed his mind, and was more than ever bent on covering the last lap
+lying between themselves and the pond.
+
+Jack and Wallace fell in on either side, and the march was begun. Since
+the other pair did not wish to be left behind, they were forced to
+accompany themselves to the movements of the trio.
+
+Thus they walked perhaps a full hundred yards along the winding road,
+with the stars showing overhead, and the black mysterious woods flanking
+them on either side.
+
+The shouts had apparently ceased; at least none had been heard since the
+five lads reached open territory.
+
+Again it was Bobolink who caught a sound of some sort.
+
+"Tell me again I'm hearing owls, will you, fellows? If that ain't a
+gasoline wagon climbing a hill ahead there I'm off my guess," he
+whispered.
+
+"Chug! chug!" came the plain sound, as the air current veered more toward
+the point toward which they were heading.
+
+"I know that hill," Paul observed, as if talking to himself; "it's just
+this side of the mill pond. That means the car is coming this way. The
+two gentlemen are separating themselves from their dear friend, Solus
+Smithers. Why, I wonder? Would Mr. Pender have anything to do with it?"
+
+"Wow! did you see that?" gasped Bobolink, proving that his plaint about
+his eyes closing up could hardly be based on solid ground.
+
+"Somebody struck a match, and it went out! Whoever it is, he's on the
+road just ahead of us, fellows!" whispered Jack.
+
+"Back up into the scrub here. Quick! for perhaps he's got another match!"
+said Paul, following up his words by instant action.
+
+They managed to cower down in the brush, though Bobolink muttered
+something to the effect that he had received another jab in the
+neighborhood of his wretched eyes.
+
+"Look! he's done it, Paul, just as you said he would!" whispered Jack.
+
+"Yes, he's shielding it from the breeze till it gets strong. There--well,
+what d'ye think of that, fellers?" gasped William.
+
+"It's Ted!" muttered Wallace, staring hard at the figure that seemed to
+be huddled up on the road a little distance away.
+
+"What do you suppose the silly goose is doing on his knees?" came from
+Jack.
+
+"He's found something, and he's looking at it. See, now he's managed to
+open it up. Seems to me like a leather bag, boys," Wallace managed to
+wedge in with.
+
+"Just what it is, old cat eyes. A hand bag! Now, however did that thing
+happen to be lying there in the road? Nobody ever comes up here but
+Solus, and he isn't the one to own a bag like that."
+
+"The red car," said Paul, as Jack seemed to hesitate.
+
+"That's it, as sure as you live. Dropped out of the machine; and by
+jinks! the fellers are comin' back to look for it. Never missed it till
+Sol got home!" his chum declared.
+
+All this talk between the five boy scouts was carried on in the lowest of
+whispers. The sound of their voices would not have carried twenty feet;
+and the kneeling Ted was several times that distance away.
+
+Besides, he seemed to be so fascinated by what he had discovered in the
+leather grip that he had eyes and ears for nothing else just then.
+
+"The motor is coming closer!" remarked Wallace, as the sound of the
+engine was borne more distinctly to their ears.
+
+"Sure. She's just at the top of the rise, and now it's down-grade. Reckon
+she'll be here in a minute. Push back further, fellows."
+
+"Look! Ted hears it now! He's jumped up! Seems like he just don't know
+what to do, cut and run with the bag, or wait till the car gets there.
+Hey! watch that, will you?" gasped William.
+
+"He threw the bag as far as he could into the woods!" said Jack.
+
+"That looks like he meant to try and keep it," suggested Jack; "I imagine
+that the leather grip holds something that took Ted's fancy. But all the
+same I reckon it isn't going to be easy sledding for him. Will he run,
+fellows?"
+
+"He's debating that same question now; but it's too late. He waited just
+half a minute too long," Paul remarked, as a sudden flash of dazzling
+light shot around a bend a short distance ahead, and the red car with the
+khaki-colored top came into view, making fairly fast time.
+
+They could dimly see the inmates apparently surveying the road ahead with
+the utmost eagerness, as though anxious to make a discovery. The loss of
+that bag must have rather upset their plans, and given them a jolt.
+
+Every one of the five hidden scouts crouched low, so that their faces
+might not be discovered by that fierce white glow.
+
+Plainly to their ears was borne the shouts of the men in the machine, as
+they discovered the figure of Ted on the road. The Stanhope bully had
+evidently made up his mind that the bag was well worth struggling for,
+and that he must make some sort of a fight to retain possession of it.
+
+Paul could guess what his plan of operations would be. He had seen Ted
+play innocent more than once before, when caught in the act of doing some
+mean thing. And as a rule the fellow could carry out the game fairly
+well.
+
+But he was up against a different proposition now; and these keen-eyed
+men were not apt to be hoodwinked so easily as a parcel of schoolboys.
+
+Ted stood there, looking at the car that was bearing down upon him.
+
+No doubt he had assumed the innocent air of a rustic, and tried to make
+himself appear as stupid as he could. The two men in the red car were no
+longer calling, for they had seen that the boy on the road showed no
+signs of wanting to run.
+
+As they bore down upon the spot the car slowed up, and came to a full
+stop within a few yards of the waiting Ted. Every scout lying in the
+screen of bushes held his breath as he listened to catch what was going
+to follow.
+
+"Say, gimme a ride, mister?"
+
+That was Ted speaking, before either of the men could say the first word.
+Indeed they were too busy clambering out of the car to surround him, and
+cut off any chance of escape, to think of anything else.
+
+Without answering they bore down on Ted, and he found himself confronted
+by two eager faces, while a rough hand clutched his arm.
+
+"He ain't got it, Brad!" exclaimed the shorter of the pair, as though
+disappointed over something.
+
+"Hey, what'd you do with it, son?" demanded the taller traveler, looking
+furiously at Ted, though pretending to speak gently.
+
+"With what, boss? I ain't got nothin' that belongs to you, sure I ain't!"
+whimpered the boy; and Paul came near to chuckling at the way Ted put on
+the agony.
+
+"We lost a leather bag out of the car. I saw it after we turned into this
+here twisting side road just back a piece. We've looked over every foot
+between here and the mill pond, and ain't seen it. I'm going to ask you
+again, son, what did you do with it?"
+
+The man did not threaten, as yet, but there was something deep down in
+his voice that seemed to tell of all sorts of terrible things that might
+happen to the boy unless he came to time, and confessed.
+
+But at any rate Ted was game. His covetous nature had been aroused by
+something he had glimpsed inside of that same bag; and he did not mean to
+give it up unless pushed to the last resort.
+
+"Ain't seen no bag, mister, 'deed an' I ain't," he whimpered; "I got a
+lantern here, an' I was ahuntin' a little boy that was lost from home.
+Lots of other fellers in the woods adoin' that same. But my light give
+out. Then I struck this here road. I'm clean tired out, mister, and I'd
+like to get a ride home, if so be you're goin' my way. A bag, mister?
+Sure I ain't knowin' nawthin' about no bag. Cross my heart if I do. Gimme
+a ride to Stanhope, mister, please!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII
+
+FORCED TO TELL
+
+
+The two men looked at each other.
+
+Apparently they hardly knew whether to believe Ted or not. Paul saw them
+put their heads close together, as though exchanging confidences. Then
+the tall fellow once more whirled on Ted, who had been standing on one
+leg, with a most forlorn look upon his face.
+
+"We both think that you lie, son," said the man who was minus one of his
+optics, as he thrust his face close down to that of Ted, as though he
+would look straight into his heart; but this was something that no one
+else had ever succeeded in doing, and the attempt did not prove very
+successful.
+
+"Tell him who we are, Brad," growled the shorter of the twain, who looked
+angry enough to devour the unfortunate Ted.
+
+So the one called Brad took something out of his coat pocket that made
+a peculiar jingling noise, and held it up before the boy.
+
+"D'ye see them, son? We call 'em bracelets, and they're meant to go on
+the wrists of criminals. D'ye understand now? We're officers of the law,
+and we've just made a grand haul. But some of the evidence has slipped
+away from us. It's in that same bag you picked up on this here road.
+Now, don't you dare deny it again, or we'll take you into town with these
+pretty toys clasped on your wrists. I'm going to give you another chance
+to tell us, son. Where did you put that bag?"
+
+Ted winced and whined. He showed all the signs of injured innocence.
+Surely he must have made up his mind quickly that the contents of the
+bag were well worth taking all sorts of chances for.
+
+"Ain't seen no bag. Sure I'd be on'y too glad to tell you, mister, if I
+had. All I wants to do is to go home. I'm tired, an' nigh sick with all
+this huntin' for that kid," he whimpered.
+
+The man suddenly pounced on him, and despite Ted's struggles and
+entreaties, he seemed to succeed in accomplishing his purpose. At any
+rate the concealed scouts heard a snap; and when Ted reeled back he was
+holding his two hands close together in a suspicious way, and staring at
+something that seemed to be in the nature of a connecting link.
+
+"Now you are in for it," said the tall man, shaking his head
+threateningly as he stood over the prisoner; "we'll have to take you to
+town, and put you in the lockup as an accessory after the fact. D'ye hear
+that, you young fool? And all because you refuse to help honest officers
+of the law in their legitimate business. Why, you may get ten years at
+hard labor, yes, twenty. Better tell all you know, and perhaps we'll let
+you off."
+
+"You can do anything you like to me, mister, but I ain't agoin' to say
+what I don't know. Ain't seen any bag of no kind. Cross my heart if I
+have. I'm willin' to help you hunt for it, even if I am dog tired. Don't
+you believe me, mister? Sure, I wouldn't lie to you. What would I be
+wantin' with a bag; we got plenty at my house. Ted Slavin's my name, and
+I live in Stanhope. Gimme a ride, mister, if you're goin' that way, won't
+you?"
+
+Again the two men talked together, while Ted watched them out of the
+corner of his eye. He might even have tried to run but the fact that
+his hands were fastened together with that steel chain prevented such
+a thing.
+
+Once more they turned upon him, and the tall man pointing down,
+thundered:
+
+"You've been kneeling in the dirt!"
+
+Ted glanced down at his trousers involuntarily; but even then he was not
+taken off his guard.
+
+"I fell ever so many times after my lantern went out. See here, mister,
+how I scraped the skin off my hand. That's the honest truth I'm givin'
+you!" he cried.
+
+Undoubtedly it was, but all the same the men showed no signs of yielding.
+
+The taller one, called Brad by his companion, deliberately detached one
+of the lamps from the car. With this he bent down to examine the road.
+
+"He'll see the marks of the bag!" whispered Bobolink to Paul.
+
+"Watch him while I scurry along the road a bit, to see if he left it,"
+was what the man said, and then moved down toward the spot where the
+five boys lay in hiding.
+
+When he came opposite them they hardly dared to breathe, lest his keen
+ears catch the sound, and he pounce upon them.
+
+But he went past, scouring the road closely, and looking for some sign of
+the missing bag. They saw him pass on, and the light grew dim. Meanwhile
+Ted sat down on a log, and seemed to be very dejected and forlorn. Once
+or twice when the shorter man was not looking Paul saw him glance around,
+as though sizing up the chances for a sudden plunge into the forest.
+
+"He's coming again," said Bobolink; and the brilliant glow from down the
+road bore evidence of the truth of this remark which was whispered in
+Paul's ear.
+
+Brad walked hastily back, and soon rejoined his companion, with whom he
+talked earnestly for a minute.
+
+"Get up!" he said, turning to Ted, and giving the boy a kick that made
+him climb to his feet hurriedly, groaning with pain.
+
+"Bring him along into the woods, Wash!" the tall man continued, turning
+aside.
+
+"Oh! what are you goin' to do?" cried Ted, in real or pretended terror,
+as he caught hold of the man's coat, and sought to hold him back.
+
+"You'll find out right soon, son. Before we're done with you perhaps
+you'll wish you'd told us about that ere bag us the beginning. We're just
+going to make it warm for a feller of your size. This night air has made
+you too cold to speak up; but we'll fix all that, I reckon; we know how
+to do it, don't we, Wash?"
+
+"Do we? Well, I should smile we did. But they's no need of our goin' far,
+old man. This here is a right smart tree, and looks like it might answer.
+'Sides, they seems to be lots o' loose wood lyin' 'bout this part!"
+
+Paul felt a chill pass over him. Could it be possible these rascals meant
+to torture Ted until he told; or were they just trying to frighten him?
+If it came to the worst they just could not stand by and see such a thing
+done.
+
+Ted, of course, was considerably worked up when he heard what the shorter
+fellow said. It was so very plain he could not mistake the meaning.
+
+"Say, mister, you wouldn't go to hurt a poor feller what never done you
+no harm, now, would you? Wish I on'y knowed where I could find a bag; I'd
+get it for you like hot cakes. Please don't smoke me. I ain't a ham,
+mister, an' I never done you any harm. Let me go, won't you? I'll never
+come up here again, sure I won't. And I'll promise to bring you all the
+bags in our house, mister."
+
+Paying no attention to his pleadings and his groanings the men stood Ted
+up against a tree. Then the rope brought from the car was wrapped around
+both boy and tree several times.
+
+"Get busy, Wash, and scrape up all the dead leaves you can find. Then
+begin and pile up some brush and stuff. Oh! yes, it's a cold night, but
+we ain't agoin' to let a poor critter what's lost his way, suffer. Here
+you, stop that snifflin'. Time enough to beller after it begins to hurt."
+
+He struck Ted again in the face, making his nose bleed. Paul had crept
+out from the brush and commenced to approach the spot. He knew that the
+other four scouts were probably close on his heels.
+
+Every boy's heart beat like a trip hammer with excitement. They bit their
+lower lips to keep from shouting out loud, such was the strain upon them.
+But not one had the least thought of turning back. With such a leader,
+how could they?
+
+The shorter ruffian was scratching right merrily among the dead leaves,
+making all the noise he could, so as to impress the prisoner with a sense
+of his perilous condition. While he worked he kept talking, half to
+himself, and no doubt uttering all sorts of terrible threats calculated
+further to alarm the boy.
+
+"We forgot one thing, Wash," said the other man, suddenly.
+
+"What was that?" asked the one on his knees.
+
+"To search the varmint. I might as well do it right now, while you go on
+getting his jacket warmer ready."
+
+At first Ted tried to make all the resistance possible; but this only
+brought quick punishment in the shape of ugly blows and threats. So Ted
+had to stand and allow the other to have his way.
+
+A minute later the man uttered a loud cry.
+
+"Look here, Wash, what did I say?"
+
+He was holding something up. Seen in the light from the lamp belonging
+to the red car it looked very much like a fat wad of greenbacks, tied
+together with a cord.
+
+Wash sprang up, and bent over to examine the object in the light. Then he
+laughed harshly.
+
+"It's the boodle, all right, Brad. He found the bag, sure as thunder! And
+now he's _got_ to tell, or it's all up with him!"
+
+Both men turned furiously on the bound boy. Ted had held out against all
+odds up to this critical point; but of course he must admit himself
+beaten, now that they had found the evidence in his pocket.
+
+Nearer crept Paul, with his chums tagging close at his heels. And nobody
+thought to look beyond the line of brilliant light cast by the lamp which
+rested on the ground at the foot of the tree. Fortunately its powerful
+rays were directed away from the quarter occupied by the creeping Boy
+Scouts.
+
+"Now, I reckon you're agoin' to tell all you know about that ere bag,
+son?" said Brad, in a terrible voice.
+
+"I guess I'll have to, mister. I was just holdin' out to see if so be you
+was what you says. Now I know you be, and I'm ready to tell the hull
+thing if you'll only let me go free. I don't want to be smoked, just yet
+anyway," Ted whined.
+
+"You did find the bag, then?" demanded the other.
+
+"Yep, that's what I did."
+
+"And took this wad of dough out of it?" pursued the other, savagely.
+
+"It looked too nice to throw away, so I cabbaged it, mister. Wisht I
+hadn't now."
+
+"What became of the bag after you took this out--go on, now, and tell,
+or--"
+
+"Oh! I throwed that away, mister, right over here in the woods somewhere.
+If you look around you'll find her close by. Please let me go when you
+dig her out!" said Ted, really alarmed now for his safety.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX
+
+THE CAPTURE
+
+
+Paul knew where that bag was.
+
+By the strangest chance in the world he was kneeling alongside it just
+then. In creeping forward so as to draw closer to the scene of action,
+and avoid the rays of light cast by the car lamp, he had happened to put
+his hand on some object that felt soft to the touch; and he guessed what
+it must be.
+
+What if the tall man came straight toward that spot, looking for the
+missing object? Dared they rise up and defy these two scoundrels? If some
+one cast Ted loose would he join forces with them, and make common cause
+against the ruffians?
+
+Judging from what he knew about the fellow, from past experiences, Paul
+thought no dependence could be placed on Ted. As likely as not if his
+hands were free, he would seize the very first chance to snatch up the
+bag and scamper off, leaving the others to bear the brunt of the men's
+anger.
+
+But perhaps they would not have to face the tall chap just yet. He seemed
+ready to start into the bushes across the way first, taking the lamp with
+him.
+
+"Keep on piling up the trash, Wash. Get him surrounded good and plenty.
+For if we don't run across that bag mighty soon we're bound to make it
+warm for this Smart Aleck. But don't put a match to the heap till I get
+back. I wanter see the fun, you understand."
+
+"Oh! mister, it's just like I was tellin' you. I stood in the road and
+guv the bag a throw when I see your light over the top of the hill. She
+jest _must_ be close around here somewhere," Ted wailed.
+
+"If Brad finds her, all well an' good; but if he don't--well, you'll have
+a sweet time soon, that's all," growled the shorter man, still on his
+knees, and engaged in scraping more leaves together.
+
+"If you on'y would let me, I'd stand on the road jest where I was when
+I throwed the old bag. Then you could figger where she landed. Let me
+loose, won't you, mister? I told you the truth this time; and you're sure
+to find that bag. They'll be wonderin' what's become of me at home, sure
+they will. I got a mother, and she thinks a heap of me, she does. You
+wouldn't break her heart, mister, by smokin' a poor boy?"
+
+"Aw! dry up! you fooled us once, but you can't do it no more. It's the
+bag, or your hide gets a singein', my fine feller. That'll do for you,
+now."
+
+The man had a temper as short as his stature; and Ted dared not stir him
+up any further. So he hung there alongside the tree, watching the glow
+of the lamp further up the road.
+
+And as he stood in this disconsolate position, he suddenly became aware
+that something was taking place just beyond the kneeling Wash.
+
+Perhaps, had his hands not been so snugly fastened together with that
+horrid steel chain, Ted might have tried to rub his eyes, under the
+impression that they were deceiving him; for he saw a face in the dim
+light, a face that looked wonderfully like that of Paul Morrison.
+
+Some foolish boys would have been so thrilled by the prospect of relief
+that they must have called out, and thus betrayed the creeping rescuers.
+Ted chanced to be built on different lines. He stared and blinked, but
+gave utterance to no sound.
+
+He saw other moving figures close on the heels of the leader. Then he
+understood that Paul was not alone, but some of his Red Fox patrol must
+be in attendance.
+
+Closer still crept the newcomers. If Ted's heart ever warmed toward a
+living being it surely ought just then; when these lads, whom he was
+wont to regard as his bitter rivals, and enemies in everything at school,
+took such chances simply because they could not see a Stanhope boy in
+trouble.
+
+Wash kept muttering to himself as he worked. The rustle of the leaves,
+and the crackling of the brush as he dragged it forward, kept him from
+hearing such sounds as might have been made by the tenderfeet scouts, who
+had not yet learned just how to do these things as might an Indian or an
+experienced woodsman.
+
+Paul was on his knees now, and still rising, with Jack a close second.
+
+They were not three feet behind the man who labored. A single plunge
+forward must send them full upon his back.
+
+Some thought of his companion possibly crossed the mind of Wash just
+then; for he suddenly turned his head.
+
+Of course he could not help but see what was behind him.
+
+"Now!" whooped Bobolink and William in a breath.
+
+There was a simultaneous movement on the part of the five lads. Wash,
+taken by surprise, could not get up on his feet. He had his hands full of
+brush at the moment, and this also handicapped him about making any
+effective use of the weapons Nature gave him.
+
+He had just time to shout the name of his companion when the avalanche
+struck him, and he was bowled over as neatly as ever a football tackle
+got his man.
+
+Paul knew that they could easily manage this one fellow. The trouble
+was Wash did not happen to be alone. When the tall ruffian came dashing
+quickly to the spot there was no telling what he might not do.
+
+"Hold him down, you twins. Don't let him break loose. The rest of you
+follow me!"
+
+Even while speaking Paul scrambled to his feet. He heard the mad patter
+of feet as Brad came dashing toward the spot, shouting in his excitement,
+and doubtless believing that the prisoner had turned upon his captor.
+
+"Let me loose, Paul; quick, twist this rope around the tree!" shrilled
+Ted, who saw a chance to escape the punishment that had been hovering
+over his head.
+
+Paul caught the end of the rope. Four times did he dash around that tree,
+in about as many seconds; then Ted, finding his bonds loose, squirmed
+free.
+
+But Brad was now on hand, filled with astonishment and fury. Whichever
+way he turned the rays of his car lamp he seemed to discover fresh moving
+figures. The woods seemed to be full of enemies. They must be hiding
+behind each and every tree, ready to pounce upon him.
+
+Already he could see that his partner was writhing on the ground, held
+down by an unknown number of strangers. In his eyes it might be these
+advancing figures each and every one must be a deputy sheriff, eager to
+have a hand in his arrest. So terror makes cowards of the best of men;
+and Brad turned to flee.
+
+"Surrender!" shouted a voice behind him.
+
+It was Paul calling out, but just then the alarmed culprit could not tell
+the voice of a boy from that of a hyena. Some one had called upon him to
+surrender, and the dread word conjured up all sorts of terrible
+conditions.
+
+Into the darkness of the woods he would have plunged, regardless of the
+shock that must follow a collision with an unseen tree. But he did not
+go far. A figure arose straight in his path, and opened a pair of arms,
+into the embrace of which the fleeing rascal ran.
+
+Before the lamp fell to the ground and went out Paul had one glimpse of
+a face.
+
+"It's Mr. Pender, fellows! Brad's nabbed!" he could not help shouting.
+
+Jack, realizing the need of more light, instantly flew over to where the
+car was standing, and detached the second lamp. With this he hastened
+back. Wash was still struggling; but the two boys had him on his face,
+where his superior strength was of little avail; and were sitting on him
+to keep him quiet.
+
+When they rushed over to where Mr. Pender had been seen struggling with
+the taller of the ruffians, they found that he had subdued Brad; for the
+other was glaring down at a pair of steel bracelets which outshone those
+he had so pleasantly snapped on the wrists of poor Ted.
+
+There was no more fight in him.
+
+When the other man had been treated to a similar present, they were
+allowed to sit upon the ground and exchange words of doleful regret,
+while Mr. Pender went the rounds, and gravely shook hands with each one
+of the Boy Scouts.
+
+"You've done me a good turn, boys, a mighty good turn. I was just on my
+way to the mill pond to arrest these chaps when I saw a light ahead, and
+creeping up, witnessed this interesting sight. When I've found that bag
+now, I imagine I'll have the case against these two worthies clean cut,"
+he said.
+
+Upon which Paul quietly stepped over into the bushes and fished out the
+article in question, which he delivered to the officer.
+
+From Brad's pocket was taken the wad of bills which Ted had thought to
+purloin from the bag before he threw it and the rest of its contents
+away.
+
+"This is counterfeit money, boys, made from the plates in the bag. They
+were taking these things to Solus, who had written them that he had
+secured a nice quiet retreat where they might work undisturbed. So you
+see, my boy," said Mr. Pender to Ted, "if you had made way with this
+it must have gotten you into a peck of trouble from the start. You're
+lucky to get out of it as easy as you do."
+
+Ted was looking anything but cheerful.
+
+"Oh! I knowed it was bad money all the while, sir, but I wanted to take
+it to the chief of police in town. I ain't ever goin' to run up against
+Paul Morrison and his crowd no more, after this white way they treated
+me. Not much. I'm goin' to turn over a new leaf after this. But please,
+mister, get that key from him, and take these things off. Makes me squirm
+to just feel 'em. But, mister, I'm glad I didn't have to smoke, after
+all," and that seemed to be the burden of Ted's thanksgiving.
+
+As to his ever turning over that promised new leaf, well, Paul believed
+they were more apt to find potatoes growing on apple trees than that
+such a wonder should come about.
+
+"But I'm not satisfied yet, boys," said the Government agent; "there's a
+third one to get; Solus Smithers, who is known to me by another name.
+Now, I wonder if I could leave these two prisoners in charge of several
+of you, while the rest went with me in the car? I'll make use of the
+rope, so they just can't possibly get away."
+
+It was presently decided that William, Wallace and Bobolink should stay,
+also Ted if he cared to remain. Paul and Jack would accompany Mr. Pender,
+so as to render any assistance needed. They could also bring back little
+Willie Boggs, should he be found under the roof of the old farmhouse by
+the mill pond.
+
+"The worst of it is I don't know how to handle a machine," remarked the
+gentleman, after they had stepped out on to the road.
+
+"Both of us do, sir," remarked Paul; "so if you will jump aboard we'll
+soon be off."
+
+"Well, I'd just like to learn if there is anything you Boy Scouts don't
+know how to handle?" observed the pleased agent, as he saw the two lamps
+put back in position, though only one was allowed to remain lighted.
+
+It took them but a short time to draw close to the farmhouse by the pond.
+
+Mr. Pender jumped out and advanced through the darkness toward the door.
+Just as he reached it the boys, looking, saw it open. Then the voice of
+Sol Smithers came plainly to them.
+
+"Wall, did yuh run acrost the bag, Brad? I guessed 'twas on'y layin' down
+the road a piece. But what yuh mean apushin' in on me thetaways?"
+
+"You're my prisoner, Silas Westover. Don't try to run, or it will be the
+worse for you. I have plenty of help and your place is surrounded. Wash
+and Brad are already in irons. Hold up your hands!" came in the stern
+voice of Mr. Pender.
+
+Of course the man who had called himself Solus Smithers did not offer any
+resistance, and he was quickly made a prisoner. When he found later that
+one man, assisted by a parcel of Boy Scouts, had captured three desperate
+characters, he was about as mad as a hornet; but it was too late then
+to remedy matters.
+
+Paul and Jack immediately started a search for the missing Willie Boggs.
+The youngster was discovered fast asleep on a cot, just as the man who
+had found him in the woods had lain him down.
+
+And when Mr. Pender saw this he nodded his head, and declared that
+because Solus had shown that he possessed a tender heart, for all his
+assumed fierceness, he would make it as easy for him when the case to
+trial, as he could.
+
+After Mr. Pender had searched the place, and accumulated what evidence
+he needed, all of them got into the car, Willie still sound asleep. Then
+they started over the road for Stanhope.
+
+The town was reached at just one o'clock. At police headquarters Mr.
+Pender delivered his three prisoners for safe keeping. After that Paul
+again took the red car out to bring in the remainder of the patrol, for
+they were miles away from home.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX
+
+FOUND OUT AT LAST
+
+
+"Why, hello! Paul! I didn't hear you ring. Did you fly in through the
+window?"
+
+Jack sprang up from the easy chair he had been occupying in the library
+of his own home, when his chum suddenly appeared before him.
+
+It was about ten o'clock on the morning following the hunt for the lost
+boy; and the remarkable occurrences that had accompanied it up in the
+woods above Stanhope.
+
+"Oh! you know I told you I might slip in by the back door this time; and
+that is just what I did," replied Paul, speaking in an unusually guarded
+tone.
+
+"That's a fact!" exclaimed Jack, beginning to show signs of excitement;
+"and I remember that at the same time you promised--"
+
+"I'd try my best to solve the puzzle about those disappearing old coins,
+and tell you to-day," said his chum, breaking in. "Well, perhaps I may,
+though my most promising clue has turned out a bit of a fizzle."
+
+"But you have another up your sleeve, you said?" continued Jack, eagerly.
+
+"Yes, I believe I have," Paul admitted. "Some time later, when we get
+this queer affair off our hands, I want to talk with you about a lot of
+things connected with this scout movement. I got some good ideas from a
+bunch of papers left at our house for me. Guess who remembered us in
+such a bully way?"
+
+"Give it up. I might mention every gentleman in town, and then some,"
+laughed Jack; "for they're all watching what we're doing, with interest.
+But go on and tell me who it was, Paul."
+
+"Mr. Peleg Growdy," came the surprising answer.
+
+"Well, you don't say?" exclaimed his chum, delight showing in his voice;
+"so the old man has really seen a great light, has he? I guess he's
+taking more interest in our troop than anybody else in town. That night's
+work was the best thing that ever happened for the boys of Stanhope, as
+well as for Peleg. I take off my cap to him after this, Paul."
+
+"But wait; that isn't all. You know that Si Growdy is a nephew of his?
+Well, he's without a home no longer. Peleg sent for him, and they had a
+long talk. Si told me this morning that he's really been adopted by his
+uncle, and is going to make his home with him. What d'ye think of that,
+Jack?"
+
+"Just immense, that's what," declared his companion, slapping a hand on
+Paul's shoulder; "I'm glad we went there and cleaned up the old man's
+dooryard. Some of the boys thought it silly at the time; but they
+understand things better now. He was just needing something like that to
+touch his heart. Up to then he thought all boys were pests. We opened his
+eyes some, eh?"
+
+"That's right, we did. But about those coins!" said Paul, smiling once
+more.
+
+"Yes, first tell me who it was you suspected that has turned out
+innocent?" asked his chum.
+
+"There he lies yonder, sleeping, with one eye open and watching us!"
+remarked Paul, pointing across the room.
+
+"What! Carlo! You actually suspected him of taking my coins? Why, Paul,
+whatever put that notion into your head?" demanded Jack, in sheer
+astonishment.
+
+"Well," returned Paul; "perhaps it was silly, but then you've taught him
+to fetch a basket from the baker's, and do lots of stunts. I didn't know
+but what the sly old chap might be helping himself to your coins, and
+palming them off on the butcher for a supply of bones."
+
+"That would have been the limit!" gasped his friend. "But you found out
+that he was innocent, did you?"
+
+"I finally went in and talked with Mr. Griggs; but he said Carlo just
+came in once in a while, looking so pitifully at him, that he didn't have
+the heart to refuse a bone. So none of your lost coins have gone into his
+till, Jack."
+
+"Oh! that would have been the queerest thing ever, had he done it. But
+now about the other clue you have--tell me about it, Paul," continued
+the anxious one. Paul had seated himself where he could keep an eye down
+the street in front of the house. And while his chum was talking he had
+smiled as if he might have discovered something out there that pleased
+him very much.
+
+"Come right up to your den with me, Jack, and leave Carlo shut in here,"
+he said, rising; "and when we get upstairs open the window to air the
+room. Then I shall ask you to let me hide there behind something, while
+you go downstairs, pass out, and along the street in plain view."
+
+"Say, that's a mighty queer thing to do," ventured the other.
+
+"It's all a part of my plan. You must leave the door of the den open too.
+And Jack, after you get around the corner I want you to sneak back to the
+rear of the house, and come up again, crawling into the den here, if
+everything is quiet."
+
+"Oh! all right, if you say so, Paul," Jack observed; "but you've sure got
+me guessing to beat the band, right now. Here's the window open. Now
+shall I get busy, and meander off?"
+
+"Right away. Please carry it out just as I said. You ought to be back
+here inside of six or seven minutes; and I guess that will be time enough
+before the circus begins, Jack."
+
+So the owner of the little den at the top of the house gave his chum one
+last look of bewilderment, and turning, hastened down the stairs.
+
+Paul, with a glance around, chose a certain corner for his hiding-place.
+Here he could see without exposing himself to view; and squatting down he
+prepared to await developments.
+
+A minute later he got up, and moved an old screen partly across the
+floor, so that it hid the open door. When Jack returned, he could crawl
+alongside the hiding boy without showing himself to any one in the room,
+or beyond the window.
+
+Hardly had five minutes crept by when Paul heard a slight sound. It came
+from the stairs, and he smiled, knowing that his chum had lost no time in
+carrying out his part of the plot.
+
+So Jack came sliding in, and was soon nestling down at Paul's side,
+brimming over with curiosity, yet deterred from asking questions by the
+fact that Paul had put up a warning finger.
+
+Several more minutes passed by, when Jack was thrilled to see something
+moving in the direction of the partly open window. It seemed to be a
+long cane fishing rod, that had a dark colored lump at the end of it.
+
+The rod continued to advance slowly into the den. It was, of course, in
+the hands of some one perched in the window of the attic belonging to the
+empty house so close by; and Jack could easily guess now who that person
+must be.
+
+Scissors Dempsey, once his friend, but latterly a crony of Ted Slavin!
+
+Now the end of the rod seemed to hover above the little box containing
+all that were left of Jack's old coins. And even as he and Paul looked
+they saw it descend until the light box was tilted partly over, when the
+point of the long rod was pushed into it vigorously. Jack was reminded
+somewhat of a human hand groping about. And then, as the fishing pole was
+rapidly withdrawn, he saw one of his few remaining old coins sticking to
+the black lump at its terminus!
+
+The game was now clear. Scissors, inspired by a love of fun, or a desire
+to mystify Jack, perhaps make him suspect that one of his chums was
+taking the coins, had come every day into this empty house belonging to
+his father. Whenever he found the window in Jack's den open he amused
+himself with this strange fishing.
+
+Paul beckoned to his chum, and then silently crept out of the den, which
+he was easily enabled to do, thanks to the screen he had placed to cover
+the open door.
+
+Once down on the next landing Jack clutched his sleeve.
+
+"Well, would you dream of such a thing as that?" exclaimed the latter,
+nearly ready to explode with laughter, yet feeling a bit angry at the
+same time. "What under the sun d'ye suppose he's doing such a stunt for,
+Paul?"
+
+"We'd better put it up to Scissors," replied the other, quickly.
+
+"Then you suggest waiting for him as he comes out, and telling him we
+know all about his fishing for my coins?" asked Jack.
+
+"Come along. He might be satisfied with just one to-day. You see it's
+getting harder, with so few left in the box," and Paul led the way
+downstairs again.
+
+"But what's he got on the end of that pole?" demanded his chum.
+
+"I think it must be a lump of rather soft tar, or pitch," came Paul's
+answer, readily enough. "I found a little on one of the coins left the
+last time we examined them; and you said that the fourth stuck to the
+side of the box. Yes, that's what it is. Now, let's wait over by the
+front door, for that's the way he goes in."
+
+Five minutes later the front door of the empty house opened, and a tall
+boy, with spindly legs, came slily out. He stopped to turn a key in the
+lock. Then, as he wheeled, it was to find himself facing two fellows who
+were probably the very last boys in Stanhope he expected to see.
+
+"Just in time to explain how you came to think of that clever little
+fishing dodge of yours, Scissors," remarked Paul; "and to give back all
+those old coins you've been raking in so smartly. Thought it lots of fun,
+didn't you? And meant to twist my chum up so he'd think one of his own
+crowd had been taking them?"
+
+"Yes," Jack said, in turn, looking as angry as he could; "and if you
+don't turn every blessed copper piece over to me right away, there's
+going to be trouble at your house, understand that, Scissors?"
+
+The guilty one turned red in the face. Then he laughed as though he
+wanted to consider it a joke.
+
+"Oh! come off!" he exclaimed, with a gesture of disgust; "can't you take
+a little fun, Jack? Of course I meant to give 'em all back again, after
+I'd had my sport out of the game, and got the last coin. They're upstairs
+here, right now. Come along in, and I'll show you. The slick trick is
+gone up in smoke now, anyway; since you got on to my curves. But I
+wouldn't make such a big fuss over nothing."
+
+"It wasn't the coins, because they don't count for much; but just think
+how I felt at even suspecting that some fellow who was my friend had been
+taking them," said Jack, as he and Paul followed Scissors into the empty
+house.
+
+And from the sneer on the other's face as he looked back, Paul was
+inclined to believe that this was just what he had been doing the thing
+for. He disliked Jack as much now as he had once cared for him; and would
+probably enjoy nothing better than to see him turn on some friend,
+perhaps even his best chum.
+
+The coins were found, as he had said, in a marble-bag in the attic. While
+Jack was counting them, Paul knelt at the window, and experimented with
+the long fishing rod he found on the floor. He discovered that he could
+manage to tilt the little box on the table quite easily, though it needed
+some labor before he brought one of the coins across the open space,
+glued to the pitch at the point of the rod.
+
+"All there, ain't they?" demanded Scissors.
+
+"Yes," replied Jack; "though so sticky I'll have to wash them in
+something like benzine. Perhaps you did do it for a lark, Scissors; but
+I'll make sure that a screen is in that window whenever it's open after
+this."
+
+"Huh! I guess the feller that invented this racket could get up somethin'
+just as good if he wanted," and that was all Scissors ever said about
+it to the boy he had wronged.
+
+Jack, having recovered his property, did not care to do anything further
+about the robbery. Later on Scissors himself told his cronies, thinking
+it to his credit; and they more than a few times tried to joke Jack about
+his disappearing coins. But he took it all in good humor, and after a
+while the thing was apparently forgotten, because the boys of Stanhope
+had many other things of importance to engage their undivided attention.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI
+
+WELL DONE STANHOPE TROOP!--CONCLUSION
+
+
+Days and weeks passed.
+
+In season and out, the boys of industrious Stanhope Troop worked. Never
+had the good people known such a wave of enthusiasm to sweep over the
+town on the Bushkill. It seemed as catching as the measles, this spirit
+of energy, and a desire to do things worth while, which had taken
+possession of most of the boys.
+
+Parents got together, and conferring, admitted that this new fad was by
+all odds the best thing that had ever happened. They determined to
+encourage it to the limit. Even those who were doubtful at the start,
+found themselves obliged to admit that never before had Stanhope
+presented such a clean appearance; and not within the recollection
+of the oldest inhabitant had boys been so obliging.
+
+After the Stanhope Troop had been fully received into the National
+organization an efficient scout master was finally secured in the person
+of a young man by the name of Alec Gordon. He had lately come from
+visiting across the water, where he had enjoyed the personal acquaintance
+of several leading lights in the scout movement in England. Besides that,
+he was naturally fond of the woods, and best of all, filled with a deep
+love for the boy of to-day.
+
+Under his guidance the troop prospered, and made rapid progress along the
+lines started by Paul. The only trouble about the whole matter was that
+Mr. Gordon, being a traveling man, was liable to be called away just when
+his presence might be most needed.
+
+Several times this had occurred, and feeling the need of leaving a deputy
+to fill his place, he put it up to the boys themselves. Of course there
+had not been a dissenting vote; and Paul was elected to play the part of
+guide, should an emergency arise; and in this way he became assistant
+scout master of the troop.
+
+They need have no fear concerning his ability to fill the rôle. He
+had proven equal to the task before now; and there were not a few,
+particularly among those acknowledging the magical Red Fox as their
+totem, who secretly cherished a belief that Paul knew more about the
+secrets of Nature than any _two_ mature scout masters.
+
+Every chance that offered the scouts were abroad, as busy as bees in the
+honey season; only instead of laying up sweets these energetic chaps
+sought new information. They followed the trails of fox, 'coon and
+rabbit; they watched the habits of the noisy crows holding a caucus in
+the woods; they kept company with the red squirrel and the frolicsome
+chipmunk as they stored away the chestnuts and juicy hickories for their
+winter's supply of food.
+
+And on every occasion they labored to make themselves perfect in those
+branches of wood lore, and the knowledge of useful things, which they
+expected would play a prominent part in the approaching competition.
+
+Just as Paul and Wallace had predicted, it was found that nearly every
+fellow had a love for Nature and her wonderful secrets somewhere in his
+system; even though with a few this breath had to be fanned vigorously in
+order to keep it alive.
+
+Of course they were annoyed again and again by Ted Slavin and his envious
+followers; for the bully of the town had drifted back to his old ways, as
+might have been expected.
+
+When peaceful tactics failed to stop these malicious tricks, the scout
+master personally appealed to the authorities, and a warning was issued
+that, for a time at least, dismayed the disturbers of the meetings. But
+when they could do so in secret, they never lost an opportunity to play
+some sly trick.
+
+Another thing that had been anticipated came to pass. This was the utter
+failure of Ward's cronies to maintain any interest in the duties of
+scouts. Those twelve cardinal virtues that must at all times be held up
+before the fellow who expects to become and remain a Boy Scout in good
+standing, failed to appeal to these rough and ready chaps. It would
+indeed require a revolution in boy nature to make Ted Slavin, or his
+crony, Scissors, trustworthy, loyal, helpful to others, friendly,
+courteous, kind, obedient to his superior officers, cheerful, thrifty,
+brave, clean and reverent!
+
+Just a few days before Thanksgiving the scout master came to Paul with
+the distressing news that he had received an imperative summons from his
+firm to go out on the road; so that it would debar him from being present
+when the long-looked-for-competition took place.
+
+"But," said Mr. Gordon, as he shook Paul by the hand earnestly; "I firmly
+believe that you will be able to fill my place so well that my absence
+will not make the slightest difference," and Paul, of course, simply said
+he would do his best.
+
+The fellows of Stanhope Troop knew full well what that "best" meant.
+
+But as the boys of Manchester Troop and that of Aldine as well, learned
+through some of their energetic scouts, what a strong bid these patrols
+of the Fox were going to make, in the hope of winning that coveted
+banner, they seemed to be stirred to make new endeavors.
+
+Paul managed to keep advised of pretty much all that was going on; since
+this was a part of a scout's duty; though no mean advantage was ever
+taken of the rival camps--he would not stand for that. In a quiet way he
+had learned how their meetings became more frequent, and the desire to
+excel, that had threatened to dwindle away for lack of rivalry, grew more
+keen.
+
+Paul was glad of it. Competition is the life of trade; but it also
+encourages boys to do their level best. There would be a brave fight for
+that banner; and no walk-over. The troop that won it might well be proud
+of the honor. And Paul was still full of faith. He watched his scouts go
+through their various interesting stunts with a growing conviction that
+they must stand at the head when the day came for the meeting, and the
+report of the committee appointed to make the test was declared.
+
+He knew that fortune had been very kind in allowing himself and Jack to
+make a heavy score in favor of Stanhope Troop. The stopping of the
+runaway horse, and the saving of the baby at the fire would bring them
+many points. Then there was the wonderful letter from Washington, on
+official paper too, in which Mr. Jared Pender told the story of how much
+he had been helped by the Red Fox patrol in his task of capturing those
+desperate rascals who were flooding the whole country with their bogus
+money.
+
+But Paul was determined that, aside from the help afforded by these
+glorious deeds, the boys of Stanhope should excel all others in their
+knowledge of woodcraft, and the valuable things every boy with red blood
+in his veins should possess.
+
+So they kept up the good work after the scout master had left them.
+
+Long since had Bobolink received his bugle, and William his drum. Both
+proved very able in managing these musical instruments, and the shrill
+notes of the one, and the roll of the other, had become very familiar and
+acceptable sounds in Stanhope these fall days, when the first snow made
+its appearance.
+
+Already had they planned a great camp for the next summer, and there was
+talk of a grand hike into the almost unknown, to them, country far to the
+north. What strange adventures were destined to befall them during this
+eventful outing, together with the fun that William and Bobolink afforded
+the troop, will be recounted in the next volume, to be called: "The
+Banner Boy Scouts on a Tour; or, The Mystery of Rattlesnake Mountain."
+
+Even at school the teachers noticed that things seemed to move along much
+more smoothly than ever before. Some of them were inclined to suspect
+that a miracle had been wrought in boy nature; until it was shown that
+there were still quite a number of transgressors, and that not one of the
+bad ones belonged to the scouts. That opened their eyes, and after such
+evidence they were one and all heartily in favor of the organization that
+kept lads interested, taught them every noble duty that would make them
+better men later on, caused them to be manly, heroic, self-confident in
+time of sudden peril, and able to stand up for their rights.
+
+Thanksgiving came at last.
+
+The entire county showed a keen interest in the rivalry of the three
+troops for leadership. Each had its sturdy backers, who believed their
+home company to be the best; and hence when the choice of situation fell
+to Manchester, it looked as though nearly the entire population of
+Stanhope and Aldine had also gathered to cheer their favorites on.
+
+The competition was keenly contested. A dozen different events had been
+scheduled some time back by the committee, as the more important elements
+that would enter into the struggle; and the scout master of each patrol
+had been notified, so that he might select those most competent to
+succeed.
+
+Scout master Gordon, and later on his deputy, Paul, had been working with
+those who excelled in these various lines. Nothing was left undone to
+make them proficient in their work. When the critical time came, and
+before the eyes of thousands they lined up before the committee to take
+the test, Paul believed that success was sure to come.
+
+Football was in the air for the afternoon; but that morning every school
+flag fluttered in that densely packed field where the arena was laid.
+Scores upon scores of pretty girls clapped their hands, and sang
+patriotic songs that had reference to their particular town, whenever
+a Stanhope, a Manchester or an Aldine competitor started to prove his
+superior knowledge of the arts of woodcraft.
+
+Wallace Carberry brought the first honors to the Red Fox patrol. He had
+his quart of water boiling a full minute before either of his rivals;
+and retired amid thunderous applause. Wallace would show up in several
+other events, for he was the mainstay of Paul's contesting delegation.
+
+Then came other interesting object lessons. Many present failed to
+understand altogether what they signified; but they were patriotic, and
+ready to cheer the victor to the echo.
+
+On account of the lateness of the season several events that might have
+taken place at another time were debarred, such as swimming, fishing, and
+sports peculiar to the good old summer time.
+
+Nevertheless, there were plenty of others equally as interesting. Three
+boys entered as contestants in the rapid photography class. They took a
+snap shot at a given word, darted into separate prepared dark rooms,
+developed their plates, dried the same, each after his own fashion, and
+presented a completed picture before the other competitions were done.
+
+Meanwhile three others showed just how a scout should learn to follow a
+difficult trail, where all manner of obstacles stood in the way. While
+the crowd could not fully understand just how this was done, the
+committee seemed unanimous in awarding the victory once more to Wallace,
+for he had not made a single error, and he finished ahead of his rivals.
+
+Others were set to work tying ten difficult knots, and the fun waxed fast
+and furious as they worked their nimble fingers, keeping an eye on each
+other the while.
+
+In another place three tents were given to squads of boys from each
+patrol, and at the word they set to work to erect the same, dig a water
+drain in case of rain, and have everything in "apple-pie" shape. The
+committee gave plain warning that it was not speed alone that would count
+here, but the general ship-shape condition following the carrying out of
+the conditions.
+
+And again the boys of the Stanhope Troop came in winners by a good
+margin.
+
+Manchester drew a prize when the contest of landing a big fish came on.
+A boy played the part of the fish, and fought with all his strength and
+cunning to keep from being reeled in. But big Carl Evans, the Manchester
+fisherman, proved to be too strong and able for those who competed, and
+had his fish landed minutes ahead.
+
+The archers then took a turn. Here Aldine presented a clever expert, who
+had made this his especial hobby for some years. He could not be headed,
+though the other fellows from Stanhope and Manchester really made a very
+creditable showing.
+
+One of the most interesting exhibitions of the morning, and one that
+excited considerable cheering, was the "first aid to the injured."
+
+A boy was supposed to have fallen overboard into the river. In each case
+several contestants pretended to drag him out, placing him face downward,
+with his arms above his head, and his face a little to one side. Then one
+of the rescuers knelt astride the body, allowing his hands to press upon
+the spaces between the short ribs. By pressing downward the air was
+forced from the other's lungs, to creep in again when this was relaxed;
+and in this fashion an artificial respiration was induced that should
+grow stronger as minutes passed.
+
+Of course, as no boy was so accommodating as to fall into the cold waters
+of the Bushkill for the occasion, the contestants finished at the same
+time. The committee, after mature consultation, awarded the victory to
+the team accomplishing their work in the most business-like fashion.
+Aldine was so fortunate as to receive the award, and her people shouted
+themselves hoarse.
+
+In athletics the three competing troops proved very nearly even; and
+brought out rounds of cheers as they followed one another in carrying
+out the several events scheduled.
+
+Possibly when William proved his great superiority as a camp cook, by
+making the batter, and cooking a luscious flap-jack long before any other
+fellow could accomplish the feat, his victory was the most popular one of
+the day. Fully five score of fellows made motions to prove they were
+starved, and that a bite from the airy pancake would possibly serve as
+a life saver. But after the committee had tested it, William calmly
+devoured the balance, to the tune of mingled groans and cheers.
+
+Last of all came the wig-wagging contest, when boys sent and received
+messages fashioned by the committee, the nature of which was unknown at
+the other end. In this Stanhope again made a record that put her boys in
+the van, for Paul had secured and studied the army manual on using the
+signal flags, and to good advantage.
+
+After the twelfth and last event had been completed, the committee went
+into session, examined the papers they already held, and finally
+announced that Stanhope had carried off the prize with six clean events,
+the others being equally divided between the two clever troops from the
+other towns.
+
+It was undoubtedly a popular victory, judging from the record-breaking
+volume of noise that greeted the announcement. What else the chairman
+would have said, with regard to the great good the establishment of these
+patrols had brought to the county, was drowned in the wild clamor.
+
+Paul, acting for the absent scout master, accepted the beautiful banner
+presented by the good old Quaker who loved peace above all things. He was
+immediately swept off his feet, and carried in triumph around the field,
+waving the emblem that would from that hour stamp the Stanhope Troop as
+the Banner Boy Scouts of the county.
+
+Little Paul cared that some frowned, or that Ward Kenwood sneered as the
+procession marched past. Close by he could see the happy face of Arline,
+together with those of his parents; and it satisfied him to know that
+through his unflagging perseverance he had been able to land his scouts
+in the van.
+
+Other trials and contests would doubtless have to be encountered; but
+with that banner to encourage then the Fox patrols could meet each
+emergency as it arose, and struggle on through difficulties to a glorious
+success.
+
+
+THE END
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Banner Boy Scouts, by George A. Warren
+
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+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Banner Boy Scouts, by George A. Warren
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Banner Boy Scouts
+       Or, The Struggle for Leadership
+
+Author: George A. Warren
+
+Release Date: December 9, 2005 [EBook #17266]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BANNER BOY SCOUTS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Garcia, Mary Meehan and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net
+
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+</pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+<h1>The Banner Boy Scouts</h1>
+
+<h3>Or The Struggle for Leadership</h3>
+
+<h2>By GEORGE A. WARREN</h2>
+
+
+<h4>
+THE WORLD SYNDICATE PUBLISHING CO.<br />
+CLEVELAND, O.       NEW YORK, N.Y.<br /><br />
+
+Copyright, MCMXII<br />
+by CUPPLES &amp; LEON COMPANY<br /><br />
+
+<i>Printed in the United States of America</i></h4>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CONTENTS</h2>
+
+<!-- Autogenerated TOC. Modify or delete as required. -->
+<p>
+<a href="#PREFACE">PREFACE</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_I">CHAPTER I--<span class="smcap">A Meeting in the Barn</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_II">CHAPTER II--<span class="smcap">What it Means to be a Boy Scout</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_III">CHAPTER III--<span class="smcap">The Disappearing Coins</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_IV">CHAPTER IV--<span class="smcap">The First Scout Leader</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_V">CHAPTER V--<span class="smcap">Checking a Coward</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_VI">CHAPTER VI--<span class="smcap">A Strange Suggestion</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_VII">CHAPTER VII--<span class="smcap">The Trap that Peleg Set</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">CHAPTER VIII--<span class="smcap">Turning the Tables</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_IX">CHAPTER IX--"<span class="smcap">Well Done, My Boy!</span>"</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_X">CHAPTER X--<span class="smcap">An Unexpected Offer</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XI">CHAPTER XI--<span class="smcap">Caught Napping</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XII">CHAPTER XII--<span class="smcap">The Rival Troops</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">CHAPTER XIII--"<span class="smcap">Fire!</span>"</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XIV">CHAPTER XIV--<span class="smcap">Jack's Chance</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XV">CHAPTER XV--<span class="smcap">The Honor Brand</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XVI">CHAPTER XVI--<span class="smcap">The Fire Test</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XVII">CHAPTER XVII--<span class="smcap">Clearing Skies</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII">CHAPTER XVIII--<span class="smcap">Carlo Does His Turn</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XIX">CHAPTER XIX--<span class="smcap">The Warning Over the Wire</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XX">CHAPTER XX--<span class="smcap">Such Glorious Luck</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXI">CHAPTER XXI--<span class="smcap">The Meeting</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXII">CHAPTER XXII--<span class="smcap">Scouting in Earnest</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII">CHAPTER XXIII--<span class="smcap">The Red Car</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXIV">CHAPTER XXIV--<span class="smcap">A Call for Help</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXV">CHAPTER XXV--<span class="smcap">A Camp in the Woods</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXVI">CHAPTER XXVI--<span class="smcap">What Woodcraft Told</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXVII">CHAPTER XXVII--<span class="smcap">Ted Finds Something</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXVIII">CHAPTER XXVIII--<span class="smcap">Forced to Tell</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXIX">CHAPTER XXIX--<span class="smcap">The Capture</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXX">CHAPTER XXX--<span class="smcap">Found Out at Last</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXXI">CHAPTER XXXI--<span class="smcap">Well Done, Stanhope Troop!&mdash;Conclusion</span></a><br />
+</p>
+<!-- End Autogenerated TOC. -->
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="PREFACE" id="PREFACE"></a>PREFACE</h2>
+
+
+<p><span class="smcap">My Dear Boys</span>:</p>
+
+<p>Knowing that ninety-nine lads out of every hundred love outdoor life
+above all else, I have taken it upon myself to give you a series of
+what I hope will prove to be clean, wide-awake, up-to-date stories,
+founded upon a subject that is interesting our whole nation&mdash;the Boy
+Scouts of America. You know what a hold this movement has taken upon
+the rising generation of our broad land. There never was anything like
+it before&mdash;there never may be again.</p>
+
+<p>At first many people made the mistake of believing that it was simply a
+new military order, and that boys who joined were to be taught the duties
+of soldiers, and learned how to fight. They know better now. It is really
+the greatest movement for Peace ever started. Not only that, but the lads
+who belong to this vast organization are taught how to be manly, self
+reliant, brave, courteous, kindly and steadfast.</p>
+
+<p>When you examine the roster of the officers who have loaned their names
+to help along the good cause you will find such honored signatures as
+those of President William Howard Taft, ex-President Theodore Roosevelt,
+and many others dear to the hearts of our boys.</p>
+
+<p>This glorious field opens up a very tempting opportunity for a series of
+stirring stories concerning the fortunes of <i>real</i> Boy Scouts, who have
+gone into the movement heart and soul, with a desire to excel in all they
+undertake; and at the same time enjoy themselves hugely. I only hope and
+trust that you may be pleased with what you read in this book, about the
+doings of the Red Fox Patrol, of Stanhope Troop, and that the story
+will do you much good.</p>
+
+<p>Yours faithfully,</p>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">George A. Warren.</span></p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="THE_BANNER_BOY_SCOUTS" id="THE_BANNER_BOY_SCOUTS"></a>THE BANNER BOY SCOUTS</h2>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I"></a>CHAPTER I</h2>
+
+<h3>A MEETING IN THE BARN</h3>
+
+
+<p>"All here now, Paul!"</p>
+
+<p>"Call the roll, somebody, won't you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Keep quiet, fellows, please!"</p>
+
+<p>"Shall I strike a match, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not on your life, Bobolink. That crowd of Ted Slavin's is out, looking
+for us. Somebody must have leaked, or else Ted was tipped off. We've got
+to be mighty cautious, I tell you, if we want to give them the slip."</p>
+
+<p>"S-s-say, d-d-don't you k-k-know we've got a fi-fine b-b-barn on our
+p-p-place, fellows?"</p>
+
+<p>"For goodness sake; won't somebody please pound Bluff Shipley on the
+back, and make him bite his twisted tongue, so he can talk straight?"
+cried a pleading voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Listen!"</p>
+
+<p>There must have been a streak of authority in the tone used by Paul
+Morrison when he spoke this last word; every one of the other six boys
+crouched there, craning his neck, and listening to catch the unusual
+sound that had apparently reached the trained ears of their leader.</p>
+
+<p>The woods surrounded the boys on all sides, gloomy, and full of
+mystifying noises.</p>
+
+<p>Yet Paul knew full well just what every one of the sounds meant. An owl
+called mournfully to its mate from a hollow tree. Katydids and merry
+crickets added their shrill music to the chorus of that late summer
+night. Even a colony of tree frogs solemnly chanted their appeal for
+"more rain."</p>
+
+<p>During the day just ended six fellows in the thriving town of Stanhope
+had received urgent telephone calls from Paul, who was an only son of the
+leading doctor in the place.</p>
+
+<p>And each boy had promised to meet him at the Three Oaks by the time the
+clock in the church steeple had struck eight.</p>
+
+<p>It was even now booming out the hour.</p>
+
+<p>When the last stroke died away, the most impatient among the gathered
+boys moved restlessly.</p>
+
+<p>"Follow me, fellows," said Paul, in a low, thrilling tone.</p>
+
+<p>"Where are we heading for?" queried one, who had as yet failed to express
+his feelings in the matter.</p>
+
+<p>This was Wallace Carberry, the sober member of the pair known far
+and wide as the Carberry Twins; his mate, William, being his exact
+counterpart in every particular, when he chose to repress the
+good-natured grin that usually marked his fate.</p>
+
+<p>"To the Shipley barn; single file; and silence is the watchword!"</p>
+
+<p>Paul Morrison had long enjoyed the confidence of his comrades in most
+matters pertaining to outdoor sports. A healthy lad, both in mind and
+body, he was never so happy as when studying the secrets of Nature in
+wood and meadow; or in playing any of the various strenuous games to
+which all boys with red blood in their veins are addicted.</p>
+
+<p>And when he sent out his mysterious request that some of his most
+intimate friends meet him on this night, as he had a communication
+of importance to put up to them, the greatest curiosity made itself
+manifest.</p>
+
+<p>Paul never suggested ordinary things. More than once he had engineered
+some game that brought honor and glory to the boys of Stanhope; and
+remembering these satisfactory "stunts" of old, it was no wonder these
+fellows had come to the place of meeting without a single exception.</p>
+
+<p>With Bluff Shipley close upon the heels of the leader, and Robert Oliver
+Link, whose name had long since been corrupted into Bobolink, bringing
+up the rear, the seven lads trailed through the woods, following some
+path with which they were evidently more or less familiar.</p>
+
+<p>Several times Paul gave a recognized signal that caused every one of the
+bunch to stop short, and turn his head on one side in the endeavor to
+discover whether hostile footsteps could be heard in their rear.</p>
+
+<p>But although there were doubtless many rustling sounds, the boys laid
+these to the bright-eyed little denizens of that strip of woodland. Too
+often had they watched the chipmunks and red squirrels hunting for nuts
+under the already falling leaves, not to know that the forest was peopled
+with these harmless animals.</p>
+
+<p>After five minutes more there loomed up before them the dark outlines of
+a huge barn that seemed rather out of place here on the border of the
+woods.</p>
+
+<p>This belonged to the father of Bluff, who, being a prosperous tobacco
+grower in this valley, used the place to cure the product of his broad
+fields, after it had been harvested in the fall.</p>
+
+<p>Paul had been carrying some sort of package in his hand, and the boys for
+some time amused themselves in guessing its nature. When he took off the
+paper it stood revealed as a lantern, ready for lighting.</p>
+
+<p>"Show us the way inside, Bluff. Then we'll have a little light on the
+subject," remarked the leader, with a last anxious searching look around;
+as though he still entertained suspicions that their march to the old
+barn might have been observed by some of the hostile Slavin crowd.</p>
+
+<p>Ted Slavin had long been known as the bully of Stanhope; for it seems
+that there never yet existed a village or town without some big chap
+exercising that privilege. He was a fighter, too, and able to hold his
+own against the best. Besides, Ted had shown some of the qualities that
+indicate a natural leader; though he held the allegiance of those who
+trailed after him mostly through fear, rather than any respect for his
+manly qualities.</p>
+
+<p>His leading crony for the past year had been Ward Kenwood, son of the
+wealthy banker who was also a leading real estate owner in the place.
+Once upon a time Ward would have scorned the thought of associating with
+Slavin and his crowd; but an occasion had arisen whereby he had need of
+a strong arm to even up a score, and once he found himself indebted to
+Ted he kept on in the bully's company.</p>
+
+<p>His rivalry in many fields with Paul had much to do with his throwing his
+fortunes in with the other fellows. And nothing pleased him more than to
+be able to upset any calculations the latter entertained. That explained
+why Paul was anxious to avoid a meeting with the Slavin crowd on this
+particular night, when he was brimming over with a great idea.</p>
+
+<p>Once the boys had entered the barn, Bluff secured the door, after which
+a match was quickly lighted.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, here we are, safe and sound, and not an enemy around. Suppose you
+open up, Paul, and get this load off our minds," said Albert Cypher, who
+seldom heard his own name among his friends, but was known far and wide
+as Nuthin'.</p>
+
+<p>But what else could a lad expect who was so unfortunate as to find
+himself afflicted with such a name as A. Cypher?</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, what's it all mean, Paul? You haven't even taken me in, you know,
+and I'm as much in the dark as the next fellow," remarked Jack Stormways,
+reproachfully; for being Paul's closest chum he might have expected to
+share his confidence.</p>
+
+<p>"Wait a bit. We might as well make ourselves comfortable while we're
+about it. I'll sit down on this box, and the rest of you gather around on
+the floor. I've got a big proposition to make, and you want to listen
+carefully."</p>
+
+<p>"T-t-take c-c-care of the lantern, f-f-fellows; my d-d-dad's w-w-wanting
+this old barn f-f-for his t-t-tobacco crop, and he'd b-b-be some put out
+if it b-b-burned just now!" came from Bluff.</p>
+
+<p>Finding perches on various low piles of waste left over after the
+shipment of the last crop, the six lads gathered around Paul, eagerness
+stamped on every beaming face.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, what's the idea that struck you this time, Paul?" demanded
+Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll tell you without any beating around the bush, fellows. The thought
+came to me that Stanhope was away behind the times. Other towns not
+nearly so big, have one or more troops of Boy Scouts. Why shouldn't we
+get up one here?" and Paul waited to hear what the response would be.</p>
+
+<p>The six who sat in a ring looked at each other as though stunned by the
+proposal. It was strange, indeed, that no one had up to this time taken
+a lead in advancing such a thing.</p>
+
+<p>"Bully idea, Paul!" ejaculated Jack, slapping a hand on his knee
+enthusiastically, as though it appealed to him most decidedly.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I declare, to think that nobody ever mentioned such a grand
+movement before. Count me in right from the start!" said Wallace
+Carberry&mdash;sober Wallace, who usually measured his words as though they
+were golden.</p>
+
+<p>"And me too," observed Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"Ditto for William!" called out the other Carberry Twin, grinning with
+delight.</p>
+
+<p>"G-g-guess I'd make a bully good t-t-tenderfoot!"</p>
+
+<p>"That's the best thing you ever thought up, old chap," came from Nuthin'.</p>
+
+<p>"Hurrah! every county heard from, and not one contrary word. It looks
+as if there might be something doing right soon around this region,"
+declared Paul, naturally pleased because his proposition had met with
+such unanimous satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>"Tell us more about it, please. I've read about the Boy Scouts; but my
+mother would take a fit if she thought I was practicing to become a
+soldier. You see, I had an older brother, who enlisted to go out with
+some of the boys when we had our little fuss about Cuba and the
+Philippines; and poor Frank died in camp of typhoid fever. I'll have a
+hard time winning her over, and the dad, too," remarked Bobolink, sadly.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, that's where you make a big mistake, Bobolink. Over in England,
+where the Boy Scout movement started, it has some connection with the
+army, because there, you see, every fellow expects at some time to serve
+his country as a soldier, or on board a naval vessel. But here in
+America, the movement is one for peace."</p>
+
+<p>"Then what's all the doings about?" asked Nuthin', as if puzzled.</p>
+
+<p>"I know, and Paul is right about it," came from Wallace Carberry, always
+quite a reader of newspapers and magazines.</p>
+
+<p>"Let him tell then. I'm for the game, no matter what it means," cried
+Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"And I think Bluff knows something about it, for he said he would do for
+the lowest grade of scout, which is the tenderfoot. But I don't think any
+of you are qualified to take even that degree; for a tenderfoot must
+first be familiar with scout law, sign, salute, and know what his badge
+means; he must know about our national flag, and the usual forms of
+salute due to it; and be able to tie some seven or eight common knots.
+How about that, Bluff?"</p>
+
+<p>"N-n-not guilty!" promptly answered the one addressed.</p>
+
+<p>"Say, that sounds interesting any way. Tell us some more about this,
+Paul!" exclaimed William, always eager to hear of anything that smacked
+of novelty.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, there are two more degrees a fellow can climb up to, a
+second-class scout, and a first-class scout, full fledged. After that, if
+he wants to keep right on there are merit badges to be won for excelling
+in angling, athletics, camping, cooking at the campfire, taxidermy, first
+aid to the injured, handicraft, life saving, path-finding, and a lot
+more."</p>
+
+<p>"Now you've got me stuck on this new game," cried Bobolink, excitedly.
+"The more you explain the better I like the idea. Me for the Boy Scouts,
+fellows!"</p>
+
+<p>"Hear! Hear! Paul, the idea is yours, and we vote unanimously that you
+occupy the exalted position of scout master&mdash;I know that every troop has
+to have such a head, and you're better fitted for the job than any fellow
+in town!"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," laughed Paul, "but unfortunately, I believe a scout master has to
+be over twenty-one years of age."</p>
+
+<p>"Who knows the ways of the open like our Paul? He's the right man in the
+right place. Say, are there any books on the subject, that we can get,
+and learn more about this thing?" asked Wallace, who seemed to be
+particularly well pleased.</p>
+
+<p>"I've already sent for a manual, and expect it by to-morrow; when we can
+find out all about it. But wishing to be posted when I put the question I
+went over the river to Aldine to-day, and saw some of the boys there who
+belong to the Scouts. They made me more anxious than ever to start a
+patrol in our home town."</p>
+
+<p>"But I've seen something about a troop?" remarked Jack Stormways, who,
+Paul thought, seemed unusually sober for a boy ordinarily light-hearted.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, a troop takes in say, three local posts called patrols, each of
+which has eight members. It is known by a number, as Troop One of Boston;
+and each minor organization takes a name of some animal, such as wildcat
+or fox. If it is called Fox, every boy belonging to it is supposed to be
+able to bark like a fox, so as to be able to signal a comrade while
+scouting in the woods."</p>
+
+<p>"Ginger! but that does sound interesting," declared William.</p>
+
+<p>"It's j-j-just immense, that's w-w-what!" was Bluff's opinion.</p>
+
+<p>"Listen! I heard a laugh as sure as anything!" exclaimed Paul, lifting a
+hand to indicate silence; and every one of the group assumed an attitude
+of expectancy.</p>
+
+<p>As they waited there suddenly came a tremendous crash, as some object
+landed forcibly against the wooden side of the old barn. It was instantly
+followed by a second bang, and others came quick and fast, until the
+noise might be likened to a bombardment from a hostile battery.</p>
+
+<p>"It's the Slavin crowd!" called Bobolink, excitedly jumping to his feet.
+"They followed us here after all, and have been listening to every word!"</p>
+
+<p>"All hands to repel boarders!" shouted Paul; and with a cheer the
+seven boys rushed over to the door, out of which they sprang, bent
+on retaliating on their tormentors.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II"></a>CHAPTER II</h2>
+
+<h3>WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A BOY SCOUT</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Where are the stone throwers?" shouted the merry member of the Carberry
+Twins, as he danced up and down, eagerly trying to discover some moving
+object in the surrounding darkness.</p>
+
+<p>"Gone like smoke, I guess," laughed Paul, who had really expected
+something of this sort, judging from past experiences with these same
+tormentors.</p>
+
+<p>"Look there, I can see something moving yonder. Get ready to give a
+volley!" cried Nuthin', pointing as he spoke.</p>
+
+<p>"H-h-hold on, f-f-fellows, d-d-don't fire yet! It's only our old d-d-dun
+cow!" gasped Bluff, excitedly; as he waved his arms up and down after the
+manner of a cheer captain at a college football game.</p>
+
+<p>"They've lit out, that's what," grumbled William, who felt as though
+cheated.</p>
+
+<p>"All right, then. It's just as well, for a fight would be a mighty poor
+way of preparing to join the scout movement. You'll learn what I mean
+later on when you hear the twelve points of the law that every fellow
+must subscribe to," observed Paul, seriously.</p>
+
+<p>"What d'ye mean, Paul?" demanded Bobolink, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, tell us right now what the twelve rules are," said William.</p>
+
+<p>"I know, for I read all about them a few days ago," remarked Wallace,
+readily.</p>
+
+<p>"All right, then, suppose you call them off. What does a scout promise to
+be if allowed to wear the uniform, Wallace?" asked the leader.</p>
+
+<p>"To be trustworthy, loyal, helpful to others, friendly, courteous, kind,
+obedient to his superiors, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent."</p>
+
+<p>"Why, it doesn't say a single word about fighting!" ejaculated William.</p>
+
+<p>"Because a scout must never fight save as a last resort, and then only to
+save some weak one from punishment. He must be brave to face danger, to
+stop a runaway horse; or jump in and keep another from drowning. Do you
+get on to the meaning of this movement, fellows?" asked Paul, eagerly.
+The more he read about it the greater became his desire to have a hand in
+organizing a Stanhope troop that might compete with those of Aldine and
+Manchester, two rival towns, both on the opposite side of the Bushkill
+River, the former a few miles up-stream, and the latter the same distance
+down.</p>
+
+<p>"We do, and I tell you I like it better and better the more I hear of
+it," said Jack, earnestly. "Why, I just had an idea it meant being junior
+soldiers, and drilling so as to be ready to invade Canada, or repel the
+yellow peril when the little Japs swarmed across the Pacific. Count me
+in, Paul."</p>
+
+<p>"If I can pass the examination I'm going with you, sure," observed
+William.</p>
+
+<p>"All right, but if they take you in just remember that you've got to quit
+your playing tricks on everybody, William," declared the other Carberry
+Twin.</p>
+
+<p>"Listen to him, will you? He's feeling hard on me just because dad gave
+him a touch of the cane last night, thinking it was me. As if I was to
+blame for looking like my brother," the other said, plaintively, though
+chuckling at the same time.</p>
+
+<p>"You know you fixed it so he'd pounce on me. I'm always in hot water
+because you must have your fun. 'Taint fair, and I'd have to be an angel
+not to kick. Oh! I hope you get to be a scout, because then I'll have
+some peace," declared Wallace; but all the others knew very well what a
+deep and abiding affection there really lay between the Carberry Twins.</p>
+
+<p>"Let's go home now. No use staying any longer out here, with Ted Slavin
+and his cronies hanging around, ready to bombard us again. Besides, I
+guess Paul wants to wait till he gets his book before telling us any more
+about the game."</p>
+
+<p>"Right you are, Nuthin'. I only wanted to see how the land lay, and if
+you took to the idea. I'm satisfied already that it's going to make a
+hit, if we can get a few more fellows to join in with us," said Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"I know one good recruit I can drum up&mdash;Tom Bates," spoke up Albert.</p>
+
+<p>"And a good addition to the seven now here. That would make our first
+patrol," echoed the leader, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"How about inviting some of the Slavin crowd to join us?" asked Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, perhaps we might pick a couple there; but I think you'll have to
+be getting up early in the morning to manage it," replied Paul,
+meaningly.</p>
+
+<p>"What's that?" asked William.</p>
+
+<p>"Just this. Ted Slavin has heard our plans. You know that he never likes
+to see anybody else pull down the plums. What will he do right away,
+fellows?"</p>
+
+<p>"Go and see his shadow, Ward Kenwood, and get him to put up the money to
+start the ball rolling. My word for it that inside of a week there'll be
+two rival Boy Scout troops in little old Stanhope," remarked Jack
+Stormways.</p>
+
+<p>"Say, that would be great, if the other crowd only acted on the square,"
+ventured William. "We could have all sorts of contests between us. But
+I know Ted Slavin too well to believe he'll ever subscribe to the twelve
+rules Wallace mentioned. Why, he'd have to be made all over again to do
+that."</p>
+
+<p>"Look here, Paul, if a fellow has to live up to the rules, however could
+the members of Ted's company be taken into a troop of Boy Scouts?" asked
+Bobolink, who always sought information.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't believe they ever could. Still, there's no law in the land to
+prevent any lot of boys from forming a patrol, and calling themselves
+scouts. That's my way of looking at it," was the answer the leader gave.</p>
+
+<p>The lads were now on their way home, the lantern having been secured, and
+extinguished, lest it invite another bombardment on the part of their
+tormentors, doubtless still hovering somewhere nearby.</p>
+
+<p>No further attack came, however, for which some of them were possibly
+sorry, particularly William and Bluff, who delighted in strenuous action
+at all times.</p>
+
+<p>On the border of the town the seven separated into three groups, the
+twins going off arm in arm, Bluff, Bobolink and A. Cypher forming
+another; while Paul and his particular chum made up the third.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," said Paul, as they headed for the house of his comrade, which
+chanced to come before his own, "what do you think of my scheme, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"Immense, that's what. I'm only astonished that nobody else took up with
+the idea before. Poor old Stanhope seems to be away behind the times,
+Paul."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I don't know. We've had lots going on this summer to take up our
+time; and then most of us were away during part of the vacation. There
+are other towns just as slow to catch on," returned the other, loyal to
+the place of his birth.</p>
+
+<p>"But now that the ball has been started rolling, just watch how fast it
+gathers force. I know how you go at these things. And of all the fellows
+I ever met, you are the one best fitted to lead in this thing, if I
+understand the game right. Why, it's just going to fit in with the things
+you've preached and practiced for years."</p>
+
+<p>"That's why it appealed so strongly to me, after I really understood what
+the many duties of a scout were supposed to be. But what's the matter
+with you, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"Eh? With me? Oh, nothing much, Paul."</p>
+
+<p>But the other knew better, for he had noticed a frown come over Jack's
+usually smiling countenance more than once that evening, when the other
+thought he was not observed; and from this Paul felt positive his chum
+was worrying about something.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course, if you think it best not to take me in on it, I'm the last
+one to bother you, old chap," he went on, when Jack interrupted him.</p>
+
+<p>"It wasn't that, Paul, not in the least. To tell the truth I've been
+thinking it over, and just about made up my mind that I must tell some
+one, or I'd never sleep easy. And of all my friends you're the one
+closest to me. Yes, I'm going to confess that there is something that
+puzzles me, and fills me with alarm."</p>
+
+<p>"Say, is it as bad as that, Jack? But how is it you don't want to go to
+your own folks? You've got one of the best dads I ever knew, and your
+mother, well, few are in the same class with her."</p>
+
+<p>"That's just it, Paul. I'd hate to have either of them know anything
+about this trouble."</p>
+
+<p>Paul swung his friend around so that he could see into his face; for they
+were just passing a street lamp at the time.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I can look you in the eyes, old fellow. It isn't anything
+disgraceful I've been doing, not at all. But you see," and again that
+frown darkened Jack's brow as unpleasant things presented themselves
+before his mind's eye, "it's a family affair, I'm afraid, and must be
+kept quiet."</p>
+
+<p>"Now you <i>have</i> got me to guessing good and hard. Suppose you tell me
+what it's all about. I hope your brother, Karl&mdash;" and there Paul stopped,
+for by instinct he seemed to feel that he had guessed the truth the first
+shot.</p>
+
+<p>Jack had given a huge sigh that seemed to well up from his heart.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, it's about Karl, only I do hope that it will prove a false alarm,
+because I just can't believe he'd do such a rotten thing," the other went
+on, slowly.</p>
+
+<p>"But he's only a little fellow after all, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's so, but old enough to know better. You shall hear it all, and
+then perhaps you'll advise me what to do," went on Paul's chum, with
+a vein of relief in his voice, as though he felt better already, after
+deciding to share his trouble with another.</p>
+
+<p>"That's right, and you know that it goes no further, Jack."</p>
+
+<p>"Karl got into some mischief a week ago, and to punish him father cut off
+his allowance of spending money for a whole month. Now, Karl belongs to a
+boys' club, and I heard that at their last meeting the other day he paid
+up his dues, and seemed to have plenty of money. The question that is
+bothering me is, where did he get it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! is that all? Why, you forget that your brother is a bright chap; and
+I imagine you'll find he's been earning it some way or other; or perhaps
+his mother gave it to him. But see here, there's more back of this than
+you've told me?" declared Paul, suddenly.</p>
+
+<p>"There is," replied his chum. "Listen now, and for goodness sake I hope
+you can cheer me up some, by explaining a mystery that's bothering me.
+It's about those old coins Uncle Reuben sent to me two years ago. There
+are some twenty-one in the lot. They're copper coins, you know and I
+don't suppose worth much. I've always kept them in a little open cedar
+box on my table up in the den; you've spoken about them more than once."</p>
+
+<p>"Sure, I remember all about them; but you don't mean to say&mdash;" and there
+Paul stopped, almost afraid to voice the thought that flashed before his
+mind.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, a bunch of them have gone in a mighty queer way. Why this morning
+there were just fourteen left; but to tell the truth I was afraid to go
+up there at supper time when I came in after our last game of ball on the
+lot, to see if any more had disappeared."</p>
+
+<p>"Say it plainly, Jack. Some one is taking your old coins, sent by your
+uncle, and you're just afraid it's Karl, tempted to get some money in
+that way. But where could he sell them, do you think?"</p>
+
+<p>"There's old Doc. Thomes, who keeps stamps and curios for sale. I've seen
+some coins in his window often. He would know the value of these, and
+perhaps be willing to pay something for them. Oh! it's just awful even to
+suspect my brother of being guilty of such a mean thing. I hate myself
+for allowing it, and have made up my mind just to hide the rest away, and
+never say a word."</p>
+
+<p>"No, I wouldn't do that, Paul. In the first place it isn't fair to Karl."</p>
+
+<p>"Fair? What can you mean? I wouldn't ever say a word to him, never!"</p>
+
+<p>"That's just it, but you would <i>think</i> it always; and if he is innocent,
+why you see what a shame that would be. No, you ought to learn the truth,
+even though determined to keep your mouth shut afterward. In justice to
+Karl, you <i>must</i> know!"</p>
+
+<p>"I believe you are right, old fellow. And I'm going to be guided by what
+you say. Come in with me, won't you?" pleaded Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Paul, promptly. "On condition that you take me up to your
+den, where we can talk without being disturbed."</p>
+
+<p>"You have an object in saying that. I believe you want to see for
+yourself if any more of my coins have disappeared?" declared the other.</p>
+
+<p>"I acknowledge the corn, for that is just what I wanted to learn, Jack."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose the sooner I take the bull by the horns, the quicker we can
+learn the truth; so come on in," and taking his chum by the arm Jack led
+the way boldly up to the door of the Stormways' house.</p>
+
+<p>They managed to pass upstairs to the third floor without attracting any
+attention, the family being gathered around a table in the living room,
+reading.</p>
+
+<p>No sooner had the lamp been lighted, after the door was closed, than Paul
+stepped over to the table desk which he knew so well.</p>
+
+<p>Just as Jack had said, there was a little cedar box standing in plain
+view, and the coins it held attracted his eye.</p>
+
+<p>Slowly and deliberately he proceeded to count them, while his chum
+awaited the result with abated breath, and his eyes turned in another
+direction.</p>
+
+<p>"Well?" said Jack, hoarsely, when he saw that the other had dropped all
+of the coins back, one by one.</p>
+
+<p>"You said there were fourteen left this morning, didn't you, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and now?"</p>
+
+<p>"I find just eight here, that's all!" came the answer that caused the
+wretched brother of young Karl Stormways to shiver and sigh dismally.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III"></a>CHAPTER III</h2>
+
+<h3>THE DISAPPEARING COINS</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Just thirteen gone now," said Jack, as he bent over to look for himself.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course you know what they were, those that are missing?" suggested
+Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"I have a list of the bunch somewhere; made it out one day just for fun.
+Yes, I think I could tell them again; but I never would have the heart to
+accuse old Doc. Thomes of buying stolen coins; and the thief&mdash;never!"</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't mean that, Jack; you mistook me. Suppose I had that list, and
+rooting over all the little boxes he keeps his coins in for sale, found
+every one of the missing ones there?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and then what?" asked the other, greatly affected, though watching
+his chum's face eagerly, as though something seemed to tell him Paul
+would find a way out of the difficulty, such was his faith in the other.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, perhaps you might buy the whole lot back, for almost a song, and
+never say a word."</p>
+
+<p>A hand crept out and squeezed Paul's warmly; and there were tears in the
+eyes of Jack Stormways as he made answer.</p>
+
+<p>"Just like you, old fellow, to cheer me up like that. Here, let me hunt
+up the list for you. But promise that you won't whisper one little hint
+to a living soul. Oh! Karl, how could you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Hold on, don't judge him before you know. Believe him innocent until you
+find proof otherwise. I guess you'll learn that one of the first things a
+scout has to do is to believe in his brothers and friends through thick
+and thin, until the proof has become positive, or the guilty one
+confesses. And another thing, Jack, in case the worst comes true, it's up
+to us to make sure that such a miserable thing never happens again. We
+must save the one in error, save him through kindness and sympathy. How
+old is Karl?"</p>
+
+<p>"A little over ten."</p>
+
+<p>"Too young to join the troop then, for all boys have to be twelve or
+over, according to the rules, I was told. But they have younger fellows
+in the bunch over at Aldine, I'm sure. One I saw strutting around in a
+uniform looked like a kid of eight or nine. Never mind; I believe it'll
+all come out right yet. Perhaps some servant may have taken them?" said
+Paul, wishing to buoy up his chum's spirits.</p>
+
+<p>"We only have one, and she's been with us ever since I was born. No use
+thinking Maggie would touch a single thing," declared Jack, quickly, with
+a shake of his head.</p>
+
+<p>Paul sauntered about the room for a few minutes. Apparently he was
+glancing at the numerous college pennants and other things that were
+upon the walls; but in reality he found himself wrestling with the
+strange puzzle that was giving his chum so much concern.</p>
+
+<p>Presently he stood by the window, which was partly open.</p>
+
+<p>"Who owns the Dempsey house now, Jack?" he asked, indicating the building
+next door.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! it is still for sale," replied the other. "They don't want to rent
+it again, you know, and ever since that last party moved out of town and
+left things looking so bad, Mr. Dempsey has kept it closed up."</p>
+
+<p>"When he lived here, you and Scissors used to be something of chums,
+didn't you?" Paul went on.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, yes," the other admitted, "when we were smaller. But ever since
+Scissors started going with the Slavin crowd I've cut him dead."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish I lived as close to you as this," Paul observed. "Why, we could
+nearly shake hands across the gap. I don't suppose Scissors ever drops in
+to see you nowadays?"</p>
+
+<p>"I should say not," laughed Jack; "why, we've been at swords points now
+for a year and more, and never even speak as we pass each other."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! well, of course then it would be silly to think of suspecting him,"
+remarked Paul as he sat down again.</p>
+
+<p>But nevertheless, many times his eyes seemed to turn toward that partly
+opened window, and then in the direction of the low desk where the box of
+coins stood.</p>
+
+<p>"Scissors" Dempsey had come by his nickname because of a peculiar trick
+he had of keeping his knees stiff when walking. Long ago one boy had
+likened his long legs to a pair of scissors, and quick to take up a
+humorous name like this, his mates had called him nothing else in years.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, it's a mighty funny thing where that bunch of old copper coins
+has gone to!" remarked Jack, presently, unable, it seemed, to think of
+anything else just then.</p>
+
+<p>"I believe this den of yours is hardly ever locked," remarked Paul,
+presently, "and all persons can come up here whenever they choose. I've
+even often found your dog Carlo sleeping here. Why, if any friend calls
+to see you, and wants to wait till you come home, he just meanders up
+here as he pleases, and amuses himself looking over your books and
+magazines. Isn't that so, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"Sure. My mother says this is Liberty Hall, judging from the way all my
+chums go and come. But what's got you now? Do you think some other chap
+may have fallen into the nasty habit of helping himself to my coins,
+either to swell out his own collection, or to sell them to Doc. Thomes?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! hardly that, although it seems possible. But don't worry too much
+about it, Jack. I'm sure we'll discover the truth sooner or later."</p>
+
+<p>"Anyhow I'll have eight to hide away; part of a loaf is better than no
+bread," remarked the other, dejectedly.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I wouldn't put them away, not just yet, anyhow, Jack."</p>
+
+<p>"But, my goodness, perhaps I'll lose all of my coins if I leave them
+around like this any longer on my desk!"</p>
+
+<p>"That's so, but don't you see if you hide them, it shuts us off from ever
+learning who is taking them."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I see. You mean to catch him at it some time; is that the idea,
+Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing less. I'll drop in at the old dealer in curios to-morrow, and
+find out if he has any that are on this list. Listen, there's somebody at
+the door!"</p>
+
+<p>"It's only Carlo, scratching to get in. Open the door, please, Paul."</p>
+
+<p>As the other did so a large Newfoundland dog stalked solemnly in, paid
+little heed to either of the occupants of the den, but snuggled down in
+a corner, where there was an old cushion, evidently placed there for his
+especial use.</p>
+
+<p>"My! he's getting fatter than ever," remarked Paul, surveying the bulging
+sides of the shaggy canine, as he curled himself up as if to sleep.</p>
+
+<p>"I believe he is, the scamp. I see it when I put him through his paces
+with all the tricks I taught him. He's getting too logy, and has to be
+told three times before he'll do a blessed thing. But about this wretched
+matter, Paul&mdash;you won't say anything to your folks, will you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not for the world. It's your secret, and I'd never leak a word without
+your permission. But I must be off now. Leave things just as you always
+have done; and don't shut or lock the door here any more than before.
+I've got to do some studying over this Boy Scout affair when I get
+back. Whitson loaned me some pamphlets, but I didn't have time to read
+them through."</p>
+
+<p>Jack accompanied his friend down to the front door. Here Karl, having
+heard them descending the stairs, joined them; and so far as Paul could
+see there was no change in the boy's manner. If he had done wrong he must
+be clever enough to hide the guilt that lay in his heart, and put on a
+bold face.</p>
+
+<p>"Remember!" was all Paul said as he squeezed Jack's quivering hand,
+before jumping down the steps, boy fashion.</p>
+
+<p>It was enough to encourage the sorely distressed lad, for he had the
+greatest faith in Paul Morrison, the doctor's son, that any boy could
+ever place in a comrade; nor had the other ever failed to equal his
+expectations.</p>
+
+<p>"I really believe Paul will do it," he was muttering to himself as he
+slowly went upstairs again to the den, with its decorations of college
+flags, and pictures of camping, canoeing, outdoor sports such as baseball
+and football struggles, and kindred things so dear to the heart of almost
+every growing lad; "yes, I believe he will if anybody can. But I wish he
+had let me hide the rest of them away. It seems like putting temptation
+in the way of a weak brother. But he told me I wasn't even to believe
+Karl took the coins, and <i>I won't</i>!"</p>
+
+<p>Nevertheless, Jack Stormways must have passed a miserable night; for the
+anxious eyes of his mother noticed his distressed looks when he came down
+to breakfast on the following morning.</p>
+
+<p>"You don't look well, son," she observed, as she passed her cool hand
+across his fevered brow; "I think you ought to step in and see Doctor
+Morrison some time this morning, and let him give you something."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, mother; but it's only a little headache," he protested, for
+like all boys he disliked the thought of being considered sick.</p>
+
+<p>Her eyes turned solicitously toward him many times during the meal,
+for she saw that Jack was unusually dull, and took little part in the
+conversation.</p>
+
+<p>But it seemed that Karl made up for his brother's lack of energy, for he
+was more than ordinarily inclined to be merry, and told numerous jokes he
+had heard from his fellows in the boys' club he had joined.</p>
+
+<p>Jack mentioned that they were about to organize a Boy Scout patrol; and
+very naturally his mother looked a bit serious at this news, until he
+explained some of the really excellent points connected with such an
+association; when her face cleared at once.</p>
+
+<p>"If that is what the movement means then the sooner a patrol is organized
+in Stanhope the better. There are a lot of boys who would be vastly
+benefitted by such uplifting resolutions," she declared, with some show
+of enthusiasm.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, mother, you are right," said Mr. Stormways, just then. "Things have
+been going from bad to worse in our town of late, and the fathers are
+beginning to wonder where it will end. Only yesterday I met old Peleg
+Growdy. You remember the old fellow, for we stopped at his place when we
+were out riding, and had a drink at his well."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and a most singular old man he was. I really couldn't say that I
+was much impressed with his looks or conversation," replied the lady, as
+she poured another cup of coffee for her husband.</p>
+
+<p>"All very true; but he minds his own business if let alone; and after all
+I find that he is a well educated man, up in most questions of the day.
+But the boys, or some of them at least, have for a long time considered
+old Peleg a fit subject for practical jokes. They change the lines on his
+team, given half a chance, and annoy him in every way possible. Really, I
+don't wonder he is bitter about it."</p>
+
+<p>"But you had something in mind, father, when you said that you met him?"</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stormways looked at Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, my son; and do you know, the first thought that came to me
+was one of pleasure to feel absolutely sure no boy of mine would disgrace
+himself in plaguing an old man who had never harmed him."</p>
+
+<p>Jack felt a glow in the region of his heart at this show of confidence;
+and resolved that more than ever would he merit it; but somehow he could
+not help looking out of the tail of his eye toward Karl, to find that the
+color had mounted to his forehead, and that he seemed embarrassed.</p>
+
+<p>Was he thinking just then of the coins; or did he have some knowledge of
+the practical joke that had been played on old Peleg Growdy?</p>
+
+<p>"Now, tell us what it was, Alan," said Mrs. Stormways, encouragingly.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, perhaps in one way it may have been looked upon as something
+humorous, but it annoyed the old man very much. Last Sunday he went out
+to let his pigs run loose in the lot, as is his habit. When he pulled
+the rope that opened the little door in the back of the pen, he was
+astonished to see the queerest lot of porkers dash away that human eyes
+had ever beheld."</p>
+
+<p>Karl was snickering by now, showing that he must have some knowledge of
+what was to come.</p>
+
+<p>"No two pigs looked alike. The boys had crept into the pen in the night,
+with a lantern, and some pots of paint taken from Mr. Rabow's shop, and
+painted the whole drove in every color imaginable. One, he said, looked
+like the American flag. Another had four legs of different hues; a third
+was striped yellow and green, and so it went. Imagine the old man's
+amazement as he saw them kicking up their legs, and tearing around like
+mad; for the sun had reached the turpentine in the paint, and made it
+burn tremendously."</p>
+
+<p>Karl gave a shout, and even Mrs. Stormways could not repress a smile,
+though she felt that it was wrong.</p>
+
+<p>"I heard about it from one of the boys, father; I don't want to tell his
+name, you see, because it might get him into a scrape," said Karl, as he
+managed to get his breath again.</p>
+
+<p>Jack breathed easier, since he knew now that his brother had not been
+concerned in the adventure; still, there was that other thing&mdash;but he had
+promised Paul not to believe, or even suspect, anything so early in the
+game.</p>
+
+<p>"I admit that it does seem ludicrous; and no doubt if I had been there I
+must have been strongly tempted to laugh at the comical spectacle those
+six pigs must have presented. But it is the spirit of the thing that
+looks so bad. Growdy never harmed a boy in his life, he says, and only
+wants to be let alone; but they went out of their way to play a malicious
+trick on the old man. It took him the whole of Sunday to scrape that
+paint off the hides of his pigs; which I consider a pretty hard
+proposition. And I repeat what I said before, that I'm pleased to know
+a son of mine would not be guilty of so mean a trick."</p>
+
+<p>Karl left the table just then, and his brother fancied that he looked a
+bit confused, as though his conscience were troubling him, but then Jack
+hoped he might be mistaken.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV"></a>CHAPTER IV</h2>
+
+<h3>THE FIRST SCOUT LEADER</h3>
+
+
+<p>Paul had said that he would be away the greater part of the day, his
+father having asked him to go to the city on an important errand.</p>
+
+<p>Consequently there was no opportunity for the two chums to confer upon
+any of the matters that were interesting then.</p>
+
+<p>But all the boys had agreed to meet at the house of Nuthin' that evening,
+to plunge deeper into the subject of organizing at least one scout patrol
+in Stanhope.</p>
+
+<p>As usual Paul called for Jack, and as the latter's parents knew what was
+on tap, there was no opposition shown to his going out.</p>
+
+<p>"Has anything happened to-day?" whispered the visitor, as he was joined
+by Jack in the hall.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I was out a lot with the fellows, and doing some chores around; but
+I mustered up enough courage just before supper to go upstairs," replied
+the other, his voice giving plain warning as to what was to follow, for
+it showed the strain.</p>
+
+<p>"And counted the coins again, perhaps to find them short, eh, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you said there were eight, and now I can count only six. Why, it's
+getting to be a regular clock-like piece of business. And after what
+father said this morning, too."</p>
+
+<p>"What did he say?" asked Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Come along. I'll tell you while we're on our way," and Jack gave a
+nervous look over his shoulder, as though afraid lest his brother pop
+out on them unawares.</p>
+
+<p>As they walked slowly along the road he spoke in the affectionate manner
+in which Mr. Stormways had declared his utmost faith in the honesty and
+integrity of his two boys.</p>
+
+<p>"But you're not sure that Karl has anything to do with the disappearing
+coins. Other boys may have been up there to-day?" suggested his friend,
+quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"I asked mother, and she said she didn't remember that any one had come
+to see me. No, the more I think about it the worse I feel. But I guess
+you didn't have any time to see old Doc. Thomes before you went to the
+city, did you?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's just what I did, dropped into his shop, told him I was going down
+to New York on business for dad, and asked if I could do anything for
+him."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! how bright of you, Paul. And what did he say to that?"</p>
+
+<p>"It seemed to quite tickle the old chap. He said he had a little package
+he wanted to send in to a dealer on Fourteenth Street, and would be glad
+if I took it to him, instead of his sending it by express."</p>
+
+<p>"A package, Paul; did he say what it contained?" demanded the other,
+almost holding his breath with sudden alarm.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, a lot of old coins he had been buying lately. Now, hold your
+horses, Jack, my boy. He hadn't made it up yet, and I helped him do it.
+There wasn't one of the same kind yours are. He bought the collection of
+Chinese and Japanese coins old Captain Crocker owned. His widow had no
+use for them, and needed the money."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, you gave me a scare, Paul; but I'm glad you saw them, for I'd always
+imagine mine must have been in the lot; not that I care a bit for the old
+things now; but it was the thought, you know, the terrible suspicion."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and while about it I managed to see every old coin Doc. has in his
+shop, for he was pleased to let me root around. And Jack, not a single
+one of your missing pieces has he got, depend on it."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! well," remarked Jack, arousing himself, "let's try and forget my
+troubles for a while. Unless I get it off my mind I'll lie awake again,
+and then your father, the doctor, will give me some medicine that tastes
+even worse than what he did to-day. Did you get that manual you sent for,
+Paul?" and the speaker resolutely shut his teeth hard together as if
+determined to keep his mind off the harassing subject.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, it's in my pocket, and seems to be full of meat, too. I haven't had
+much chance to soak it in, but what I did read interested me a whole
+lot," returned the doctor's son.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I thought of a friend I had over in Manchester, and this afternoon
+I took my wheel and jumped down there, crossing by the bridge. Just as I
+hoped, Landy is a member of the troop there, and he gladly told me all he
+knew about the business. I'm more than ever tickled at the idea of our
+having a branch up here, to compete with the neighboring towns. He told
+me something more that we might consider, too."</p>
+
+<p>"What was that, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"You remember Mr. Silas Westervelt, the Quaker of Manchester?"</p>
+
+<p>"Sure. I've often talked with him, and my father is their family doctor,"
+replied Paul, readily enough.</p>
+
+<p>"It seems that he's become interested in this scout movement, which
+he endorses through and through. The result is that he has offered a
+beautiful banner to the organization that can show the highest degree of
+efficiency, and the greatest number of merit marks by Thanksgiving day.
+It's being made now, down in the city."</p>
+
+<p>"That counts us in, then, for we'll have plenty of time to get busy
+before the day of turkey rolls around, eh, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! we'll be in the contest all right, even if we are counted in the
+'also ran' class. These other fellows have been camping this summer, and
+must be up in many of the things that count. But then, they haven't got
+Paul Morrison at the head as scout leader, and that means everything in
+our favor," declared Jack, warmly.</p>
+
+<p>"Please cut that out after this. It's true that I've always been deeply
+interested in many things connected with life in the woods; but you see
+that's only one part of a good scout's credit marks. In fact, there's
+hardly one thing in all the trades and professions that is omitted from
+the list. Only he must <i>excel</i> in all he undertakes. And soon we will
+have to find a young man over twenty-one who will act as our scout
+master."</p>
+
+<p>"Hold up, there's Bobolink hurrying to catch us; and he acts as if he
+might be the bearer of important news," remarked Jack, who had heard a
+hail from the rear, and turned his head to see a flitting form.</p>
+
+<p>The other came up, panting heavily.</p>
+
+<p>"Say, you fellows must have the seven league boots, the way you get over
+ground. And just after I've gone and made away with a monstrous supper,
+too," he managed to say, between gasps. "Let me get my breath, and I've
+got something to tell you."</p>
+
+<p>"Is it about Ted Slavin and his cronies?" asked Paul, suspiciously.</p>
+
+<p>"Hit it the first shot," returned Bobolink; "who told you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why, I haven't heard a word; only I thought that if there was anything
+going on, Ted would be apt to have a finger in the pie," returned the
+other, grimly.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, he has, all right, as usual. Anyhow his mouthpiece, Ward Kenwood,
+has, and it's the same thing. I was taking something in to the dominie at
+our church (my mother is at the head of a committee, you know) when he
+asked me if I was going to join the new Boy Scout patrol that was being
+organized in Stanhope."</p>
+
+<p>"Whew, but those fellows don't believe in letting the grass grow under
+their feet, do they? Never thought a thing about it till they heard us
+talking matters over; and here they're getting all the credit for being
+first in the field," and Jack shrugged his shoulders ruefully as he
+spoke.</p>
+
+<p>"Didn't I say we'd have to get up early in the morning if we hoped to
+keep from taking their dust? No matter what else you can say about them,
+Ted and his crowd are alive, and wide-awake fellows all the time,"
+returned Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, the minister was some surprised when I told him all about it. He
+said he was delighted, and I guess he meant it too. The more patrols the
+better for the community, he said. And he seemed to know all about the
+meaning of the thing, for he showed me several books along the subject,
+that he promised to lend us."</p>
+
+<p>"Bully for him!" cried Jack, with perhaps more energy than reverence;
+but had the genial old man heard the words he would have felt highly
+complimented, knowing that whoever succeeds in getting the approval of
+live, wide-awake boys must consider himself fortunate indeed.</p>
+
+<p>"There's Nuthin's house," remarked Bobolink, just then.</p>
+
+<p>"And Tom Bates going in, with the Carberry Twins. I hope we can enroll
+a dozen good fellows for a start. The rest will flock over after a bit,
+when they get to know what fine times we expect to have," remarked Paul.</p>
+
+<p>They found that there were just a dozen present, counting A. Cypher, who
+as host was much in evidence. Besides Tom Bates, the new boys were Philip
+Towns, Jud Elderkin, Joe Clausin and Andy Flinn; the latter of Irish
+parentage, but well liked, even though his widowed mother had to take
+in washing to provide food for the numerous mouths dependent on her.</p>
+
+<p>Andy was a particularly bright boy, and many declared that he had a
+future before him, if only he kept away from the one curse of his
+father's life, rum. But as he hated the very word drink, there seemed to
+be little danger that he would be apt to follow in the footsteps of the
+brilliant man who had fallen so early in life, and left a family nearly
+destitute.</p>
+
+<p>"Meeting please come to order," called Paul, after he had been pushed
+into a chair to serve as temporary chairman.</p>
+
+<p>Soon the boys began to go into the details of the projected troop, its
+meaning, what good it might be expected to accomplish, and everything
+connected with the Boy Scout organization.</p>
+
+<p>Paul read page after page from the book he had brought, while the others,
+including the parents of A. Cypher, listened, and applauded at times, as
+some particularly fine point happened to strike them.</p>
+
+<p>"That ought to do for the present," said Paul, finally, as he closed the
+book and beamed upon his mates; "and now, what do you think, fellows?"</p>
+
+<p>"I'm just wild to get started, and more so than ever after hearing all
+about the hundreds of fine things scouts can do. I'm a crank on making
+fires, and I guess I'd qualify right easy for the championship in that
+tournament!" exclaimed William Carberry, his face aglow.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and I remember the time he nearly burned our house down, trying to
+start a blaze without a match. He got the fire all right; but there was a
+lively time around there, until the bucket brigade arrived, and slushed
+things down. Oh! you can believe William; he's some on the fire racket,"
+remarked the other Twin, at which there was a roar from those present.</p>
+
+<p>"I move that we write out just what we intend to do, and that all the
+fellows in the room sign it as charter members. Then we'll try to double
+our dozen by a week, and rush things along. We already have enough for
+the first patrol and half a second. If we expect to compete with those
+other troops in the struggle for supremacy we've got to be awake and
+doing."</p>
+
+<p>"You never said truer words, Paul. What sort of a binding agreement had
+we ought to get up?" asked Bobolink, pretending that it was Tom Bates who
+spoke; for really the boy had a wonderful gift of ventriloquism, and
+often amused himself, and his friends as well, by sending his voice into
+strange places, to the wonder of those who were not aware of his tricks.</p>
+
+<p>"I thought that over, and wrote out what I believed would cover the
+ground. If you listen now, I'll read it to you," returned the chairman.</p>
+
+<p>"Hear! hear ye! All keep silent while our honored chairman reads the
+document to which we expect to subscribe our names and seals!" called
+William, pompously.</p>
+
+<p>What Paul had written was simply that those whose names were found below
+had united themselves together with the idea of forming a troop that
+could be connected with the regular Boys Scout organization as
+incorporated.</p>
+
+<p>Then every boy present wrote his name beneath the agreement, after which
+they went into executive session, the parents of A. Cypher being kindly
+but firmly requested to retire from the room, while the election of
+officers proceeded, and other necessary steps were taken to perfect the
+first patrol.</p>
+
+<p>So the first patrol of Stanhope Troop was organized, and consisted of the
+eight originators of the scheme. It was decided to call this the Red Fox
+patrol. As fast as others were arranged for they could take on such names
+as Gray Fox, White Fox and even Black Fox.</p>
+
+<p>Later on they hoped to secure a scout master, but just now with Paul and
+Wallace brimming over with woods' lore, the lack of such an officer would
+not bother them.</p>
+
+<p>The meeting ended in Paul being placed in the honored position of scout
+leader, with the second position being thrust on Jack Stormways, though
+he declared that Wallace Carberry was far better qualified to fill it
+than he ever could be.</p>
+
+<p>But Paul was satisfied to have it so. Jack was his favorite chum; and he
+would be thrown much in his company. Besides, the desire to study up the
+rules, and perfect himself in all that an assistant scout master should
+know, might for a time at least take Jack's thoughts away from the
+subject of his trouble at home.</p>
+
+<p>Before the boys left they were summoned to the dining room, where
+refreshments were placed before them; and when the meeting did finally
+break up every fellow felt deep down in his heart that an important step
+had been taken toward raising the standard of living among the rising
+generation of Stanhope.</p>
+
+<p>Finally, as the hour had grown fairly late it was suggested that they
+leave in a body, since all military organizations did this.</p>
+
+<p>"And," continued the one who had put this idea forward, "while we have
+nothing to do with the army itself, we expect to be governed by certain
+military rules. What say, fellows?"</p>
+
+<p>"Fall in! fall in!"</p>
+
+<p>Out of the door they marched, and down the steps, two by two; Bluff
+Shipley, who was paired with Nuthin', being the lone straggler in the
+rear, since his mate remained at home.</p>
+
+<p>If he experienced the slightest sense of dejection at being compelled to
+walk without a side partner, it was of very brief duration.</p>
+
+<p>Outside it was very dark, and this condition seemed more or less
+heightened by the fact that the eyes of the young scouts had become
+accustomed to the glow of the rooms they had just left.</p>
+
+<p>Consequently there was more or less chance of some one tripping on the
+steps, and pulling others down with him.</p>
+
+<p>"'Ware the fourth step; it's shaky and may throw you, boys!" sang out
+Nuthin'.</p>
+
+<p>Hardly had he spoken than the first pair executed a beautiful forward
+bow, and went down in a heap from the lower step.</p>
+
+<p>"Look out there! A rope!"</p>
+
+<p>Paul had just barely time to give utterance to this warning when the next
+pair found the obstruction for themselves, and came plunging down on top
+of those already landed.</p>
+
+<p>Two more were close behind, so nearly upon the heels of the second pair
+that it was really impossible for them to avoid following in their wake.
+Thus there were by this time six struggling figures at the foot of the
+steps, while the balance of the patrol huddled just above, looking with
+amazement at the dimly seen spectacle.</p>
+
+<p>From somewhere near by, possibly the shelter of some bushes, came gurgles
+of boyish laughter, and jeering words in assumed voices.</p>
+
+<p>No need to tell Paul and his friends to whose kind attention they owed
+this unexpected downfall. Ted Slavin and his backers had not been idle
+while the new patrol was being organized in the home of Nuthin'. They had
+fastened a stout rope across the lower step, and succeeded in tripping
+half of their rivals.</p>
+
+<p>Paul managed to scramble to his feet, hardly knowing whether to laugh, or
+get angry at this practical joke on the part of the opposition.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V"></a>CHAPTER V</h2>
+
+<h3>CHECKING A COWARD</h3>
+
+
+<p>"It's that Slavin crowd!" exclaimed Jack, as he gained his feet.</p>
+
+<p>"Let's capture some of them, then!" shouted William, always ready for
+battle, as was also Bluff Shipley, whose hands were never bothered with
+impediments as was his speech.</p>
+
+<p>A rush was made for the bushes, and retreating footsteps announced the
+hasty departure of the enemy.</p>
+
+<p>None of the new scouts seemed to care about following very far. They knew
+Ted of old, and feared lest they be drawn into a trap, so that their last
+condition would be really worse than the first.</p>
+
+<p>"No damage done, after all," remarked Paul, as he brushed off his
+clothes; while the others gathered around, and Nuthin' came down to
+secure the treacherous rope.</p>
+
+<p>"Barked my shins some, now; and sooner or later I've just got to take it
+out of that crowd!" muttered William, limping around, and shaking his
+head.</p>
+
+<p>"Better do it soon, then," observed Bobolink, "for after you've taken
+the oath of allegiance to the scouts you dassent tackle a feller without
+losing marks."</p>
+
+<p>"H'm! is that so?" grunted the injured member, regretfully; for to be
+deprived of the boon of fighting would be taking some of the joys of life
+away from the pugnacious Carberry twin.</p>
+
+<p>"Fall in again, boys!" said Paul, cheerily.</p>
+
+<p>"Not the same way, I hope, captain!" ventured Bobolink; at which there
+was a laugh, and the incident seemed closed.</p>
+
+<p>The boys had no doubt but that their rivals must have been observing much
+that went on in the lighted rooms, possibly also trying to catch what was
+being said.</p>
+
+<p>"What of it?" demanded Paul, when some one suggested this; "if they heard
+what I read out of that manual so much the better. Let them subscribe to
+those rules, and life will be worth living alongside Ted and his
+cronies."</p>
+
+<p>"But you see they just can't!" declared Bobolink, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"Which is to say they won't. All right. Once we get out troop formed,
+public sentiment will be on our side. If they try to worry us the good
+people of Stanhope, backed by the Women's Club, will see to it that the
+nuisance is stopped. Isn't that so, Paul?" remarked Jack, with conviction
+in his voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Them's my sentiments, as some character in fiction used to remark. We
+can afford to laugh at all these little plans to annoy us. Of course, if
+they go too far, why we may have to turn and do something ourselves,"
+said Paul, seriously.</p>
+
+<p>"Bully! Hasten the time!" cried William, ceasing to limp for the moment
+in his new delight.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! but Paul doesn't mean a regular give and take fight. If we pitch in
+at all, I'm afraid it'll have to be doling out punishment in the way the
+good dad does when he plies the stick and says it hurts him worse than it
+does the bad kid," declared Bobolink; at which there was a roar.</p>
+
+<p>On the following day there was more or less skirmishing about town by
+various eager lads, seeking recruits for the rival troops.</p>
+
+<p>Paul was as busy as a beaver, and at several points conferred with some
+of his followers. He had sent for more manuals, besides a price list of
+uniforms, and other equipments necessary to the complete organization of
+the Fox Patrol and Stanhope Troop No. 1.</p>
+
+<p>Leading citizens began to take an interest in the movement, as they
+grew to understand its true significance. Stanhope seemed to be fairly
+sizzling with a new and novel energy. Even the meeting of the Women's
+Club that afternoon was given up partly to a discussion of the merits of
+the Boy Scout wave then sweeping over the land; and ladies who had been
+decidedly averse to such a thing found their eyes opened to its
+beneficial accompaniments.</p>
+
+<p>As was to be expected, the recruiting was not confined to Paul and his
+chums. Ted Slavin and Ward Kenwood were just as vigorously employed; and
+several times in the course of the day the rivals ran across each other
+while engaged in thus drumming up new subjects for initiation.</p>
+
+<p>On such occasions there was apt to be something in the way of verbal
+fireworks passing between the opposing scouts. Ted Slavin seldom knew how
+to bridle that tongue of his; and Ward Kenwood seemed to be in a nasty
+humor himself.</p>
+
+<p>To tell the truth there had long been a sort of rivalry between Paul and
+Ward over the smiles of pretty Arline Blair; and latterly the high school
+girl seemed to be giving young Morrison more than his share of her
+company.</p>
+
+<p>That afternoon about four o'clock, as Paul and two of his chums were
+passing along one of the side streets of the town they came upon a scene
+that caused a sudden halt.</p>
+
+<p>The blustering voice of Ted Slavin was what first drew their attention;
+and it seemed to come from around the next corner. Then followed a
+quavering voice, pleading in its tone.</p>
+
+<p>Paul looked at his friends, and his brow darkened.</p>
+
+<p>"It's old Mother Martha, the market woman who sells things in her little
+stall around here. And some of those mean skunks are plaguing her, like
+they often do, she tells me, stealing her apples, and laughing at her,
+because she's lame with the rheumatism, and can't chase after 'em!" said
+William, who happened to be one of the trio brought to a halt so
+suddenly.</p>
+
+<p>"Come on, then; we can't stand that!" exclaimed Paul.</p>
+
+<p>The boys hurriedly turned the corner, to find that what William had
+suggested seemed to be the actual truth.</p>
+
+<p>Ted and a follower were hovering near the poor old woman. The fact that
+Ted was contentedly munching a red apple told that he had already made
+his hawk-like descent on the stand of the market woman, and was now
+seeking to distract her attention so that his companion might also swoop
+down to seize a prize, when they would go off, laughing uproarously, as
+though they considered it a huge joke.</p>
+
+<p>Paul was on the bully in a flash, and almost before Ted knew of his
+presence he had torn the apple from his grasp and hurled it far away.</p>
+
+<p>"Get out of this, you coward!" exclaimed the scout leader of the new
+patrol, as he gave Ted Slavin a push; "I'm going to speak to the chief of
+police about the way you rob this good woman, and see if he won't stop
+it. You ought to be ashamed of yourselves, both of you!"</p>
+
+<p>William and Bluff were for jumping at the two offenders, and giving them
+a lesson then and there; but with both arms Paul held his fire-eaters
+back.</p>
+
+<p>"Let 'em come on, if they want to mix up with us. We can take care of
+two, and think it a picnic. P'raps even three wouldn't be too much, if so
+be you want to try it on, Paul Morrison. Huh! there comes another bunch
+of your sissies. Seven against two might make it too interestin', so we'd
+better skip out, Scissors. But you just wait, that's all. I don't forget
+you laid a hand on me; and some time I'm going to take it out."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! suit yourself, Ted," answered the other, promptly. "I'm ready to
+have a go at you when you're ready, if you force me to the wall. I'm not
+a fighter, but when I see a couple of rowdies treating a poor old woman
+like you did, it makes me see red."</p>
+
+<p>With derisive jeers the pair faded away as several boys came running to
+the spot, having seen the group, and guessing from the presence of the
+two rival leaders that there must be something doing.</p>
+
+<p>Their indignation was boundless when they learned what new meanness the
+coming of Paul and his two chums had interrupted.</p>
+
+<p>It required considerable persuasion on the part of the scout leader to
+prevent an immediate chase of the culprits.</p>
+
+<p>"Let them go this time," said Paul, impressively; "but I'm going to see
+what can be done to put a stop to this rowdyism. It gives the boys of
+Stanhope a bad name all around. I told Ted I'd speak to Chief Billings
+about it."</p>
+
+<p>"You won't get any too much satisfaction there," remarked wise Nuthin';
+"because, you see the Chief owes his position to the political influence
+of Mr. Kenwood; and as Ward runs with Ted he won't dare do anything for
+fear of offending the head of the party. We've just <i>got</i> to find a way
+ourselves to change things."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I'll ask my father about it. Perhaps he can suggest a plan. He
+used to be a boy himself once, and never forgets it either," was Paul's
+conclusion, as they each bought an apple from the old woman to make her
+forget her recent trouble, and then walked away, followed by her earnest
+thanks.</p>
+
+<p>"Say, but time just crawls along," observed William, dolefully; "because,
+you see, I'm dying to get to work and win some of them merits you told us
+about. Just set me the stunt of making water boil over a fire I have to
+kindle, and I'll do it in three shakes of a lamb's tail. The rest of you
+will be left hull down. And then there's lots of other jobs that look
+good to me. Let's get a move on, and start the ball rolling. When's the
+next meeting, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>"To-night, and once more at the barn where we were first. This time
+I figure on having nearly twenty present, and that will make things
+interesting."</p>
+
+<p>"Same hour as before&mdash;eight o'clock?" asked Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. And if any of you feel that you are qualified to take the
+examination for the first degree, so as to become real tenderfeet in the
+Scouts, why, I'll be in trim to put you through your sprouts," announced
+the leader.</p>
+
+<p>"That hits me," declared William; "for I've been studying to beat the
+band, and believe I'll pass muster with flying colors. Me for the
+tenderfoot class!"</p>
+
+<p>"And I've just used up a whole ball of twine tying all those measly
+knots," declared Nuthin'; after which his face brightened when he added:
+"but I can do every one just like an old jack tar. My dad was once a
+sailor you know, and that's where I've got the bulge on the rest of you.
+So-long, boys; I'm going home to try again."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI"></a>CHAPTER VI</h2>
+
+<h3>A STRANGE SUGGESTION</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Who goes there?"</p>
+
+<p>"A scout of the Red Fox Patrol!"</p>
+
+<p>"Advance scout, and give the countersign!"</p>
+
+<p>A figure came shuffling forward, bent over, and whispered a word in the
+ear of the sentinel at the door of the old tobacco barn.</p>
+
+<p>"Correct! Pass in, scout!" said the one on guard, solemnly.</p>
+
+<p>But William chose to loiter by the door, and watch the gathering of the
+clans, for the boys arrived rapidly after that, usually in pairs.</p>
+
+<p>"Where's the other twin?" asked Paul, seeing William alone.</p>
+
+<p>"Unavoidably detained, Captain. May be on deck later. Here comes another
+bunch," and William stepped aside to allow the sentry to halt Andy Flinn,
+who had arrived in company with Jud Elderkin, the latter as tall and thin
+as the former was fat and pudgy.</p>
+
+<p>"Pass along, gentlemen," sang out William, after the pair had
+successfully stood the test; "the animals went in two by two; the
+elephant and the kangaroo!" and as usual there was a laugh at this
+sally, which applied so aptly to the couple just entering.</p>
+
+<p>"All here now, Paul," announced Jack Stormways, counting noses in the
+light of half a dozen lanterns provided by Mr. Shipley, the owner of the
+barn.</p>
+
+<p>For an hour routine business was transacted.</p>
+
+<p>There were just twenty-one names on the roll now, and all present saving
+two, Wallace Carberry and another. It was decided to organize two patrols
+at once, the first to be under the charge of Paul as scout leader, while
+Jud Elderkin took the Gray Fox crowd.</p>
+
+<p>The more the assembled lads learned concerning the duties and sports of
+the Boy Scouts, the greater became their enthusiasm. As the evening
+progressed they were fairly bubbling over with excitement, and it began
+to look as though the success of the new movement were already assured.</p>
+
+<p>But Paul knew that it must be a constant fight between the natural
+rough-and-ready, give-and-take spirit which almost every boy inherits
+from his ancestors, and the new idea that would have him a hero without
+being a bully or a brawler.</p>
+
+<p>And he was not surprised when, later on, just before they thought of
+breaking up the meeting, William got the floor on the question of a
+personal privilege, and threw a bombshell into the camp.</p>
+
+<p>"I'm going to ask a favor of you fellows," he said; "and you can help me
+break even with that old rooster as well as have some fun. D'ye think
+you can stand the racket?"</p>
+
+<p>The others crowded around, for they knew very well that when William had
+anything to propose it usually meant some frolic. But Paul noticed to his
+surprise that the joker seemed worked up far more than he could ever
+remember seeing him before, and he scented trouble ahead.</p>
+
+<p>"Who is it this time, William? Tell us about it, old fellow! Of course
+we're bound to stand by you through thick and thin. That's one of the
+first duties of a scout, you know. Speak up, and give us a tip!"</p>
+
+<p>It was Jud Elderkin who said this; but that he voiced the sentiments
+of pretty much the entire group could be judged from the chorus of
+exclamations that greeted his aggressive speech.</p>
+
+<p>"It's that old grumpy miser, Peleg Growdy," said the orator, waving his
+hands to emphasize his words. "He never had any use for boys, you know,
+and often says he wonders why the pests were ever born. I don't remember
+doing him any mean thing in my life, but he's got it in for the whole
+creation of boys, I expect."</p>
+
+<p>"What did he do to you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, tell us, William. We'll stand by you, never fear."</p>
+
+<p>"He needs a good lesson, the old skinflint. Tell us what happened!"</p>
+
+<p>William grinned, for he saw that he had already captured the hearts
+of his comrades, and had small need to fear they would let him seek
+satisfaction alone.</p>
+
+<p>Jack Stormways was as deeply interested in the outcome as his chum Paul.</p>
+
+<p>He remembered all his father had said at the breakfast table on the
+preceding day, in connection with this same man Growdy.</p>
+
+<p>William was proceeding to thrill his hearers some more. To hear him talk
+one might imagine his father was a celebrated lawyer instead of the town
+blacksmith, for William had a smooth tongue.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess all of you know by this time what some fellers did to Growdy's
+pigs last Saturday night, painting 'em to beat the band? It's the talk
+of the town, and lots of folks says that it serves the old crusty just
+right. But I was tucked away in my little bed alongside t'other twin that
+night, as snug as two bugs in a rug; and consequently had my little
+<i>alibi</i> ready to prove I wasn't in the bunch that paid him that sly
+visit."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! we all know who did it, never fear!" cried Joe Clausin.</p>
+
+<p>"He spells his name T-e-d!" echoed Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"All right. Because some bad boys played that joke on old Growdy he seems
+to have it in for every mother's son in Stanhope. I met him on the road
+this afternoon when I was out with a light wagon after some feed. He was
+on the way to town to deliver a big load of truck. Everybody's entitled
+to half the road; ain't that the law, fellers?"</p>
+
+<p>"Sure it is, William; but that mean man wouldn't budge for you, hey?"
+said Jud.</p>
+
+<p>"Not for an inch. Just hauled up there taking two-thirds of the road, and
+started to light his pipe. I was in a hurry to get along, and thought
+I could just squeeze by; but I made a mistake, and my wagon got upset in
+the ditch. He went on, grinning at my trouble, and never offering to
+raise a hand to help me out."</p>
+
+<p>Exclamations of indignation arose on all sides.</p>
+
+<p>"He needs another lesson, boys!"</p>
+
+<p>"Say the word, William, and we're with you. Guess I might think up a few
+ways for you to get even with the old skinflint!"</p>
+
+<p>Paul saw that they were rapidly being swayed by their feelings of natural
+resentment. He had no particular reason for liking Peleg Growdy any more
+than the balance of the group; but the lesson of returning good for evil
+had taken full possession of his soul.</p>
+
+<p>Once he would have been only too ready to join in with his chums in
+redressing what seemed to be a positive wrong; but somehow it was
+different now.</p>
+
+<p>Before he could speak, however, Jack had elbowed his way into the midst
+of the excited lads, his face full of determination.</p>
+
+<p>"Wait a bit, you fellows, before you decide what you're going to do.
+I want to tell you something that ought to interest you."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, Jack; speak up. Any objection to joining in with us and
+having a little fun while we help a brother even up his score?" demanded
+a voice.</p>
+
+<p>Then Jack repeated as well as he was able the conversation that had taken
+place at the breakfast table in his house. He went even further than
+this, for it happened that he knew something about the old man's past.</p>
+
+<p>"Peleg Growdy is a crabbed old chap, I admit; but perhaps you wouldn't
+blame him so much if you knew the trouble he has had."</p>
+
+<p>"What was that?" asked one boy.</p>
+
+<p>"His wife and two children were burned to death when his house caught
+fire many years ago. Another child grew up to be a man, and committed
+some crime that made him run away. His last one, a daughter, was killed
+in a railroad wreck. Ever since then the old man shuns people, and just
+works as if he never wanted to know a living soul."</p>
+
+<p>"That's tough, for a fact!" admitted one boy, slowly.</p>
+
+<p>"But it don't excuse him for hating all boys. What business did he have
+sitting there and taking two-thirds of the road, to let William upset in
+the ditch trying to pass him?" demanded Jud, still rebelling.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! well, that's a rule of the road that isn't always carried out. For
+instance, the loaded vehicle is generally given <i>more</i> than its half; and
+William admits he was going light, while the old man carried a heavy
+load," said Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, that's so," grunted William, unable to hold out against such logic.</p>
+
+<p>"And perhaps, if he told the actual truth, William would admit that there
+was room enough for him to pass, if he had been a little more careful!"</p>
+
+<p>"Sure; but I was in a hurry, you understand; and didn't see that the edge
+of the ditch was crumbly. But he laughed, I tell you, and that riled me!"</p>
+
+<p>"And now you want to bring a dozen and more of your friends down on his
+place to commit some prank that will make him dislike boys more than
+ever. It's all wrong, I tell you, fellows, and for one I refuse to lend
+a hand," and Jack folded his arms as though his mind were made up once
+and for all.</p>
+
+<p>Paul saw that they were very near a division that might be fatal to the
+future good of the cause. He wondered whether he could swing the crowd
+to the other side, like the pendulum of a clock. It would take
+considerable eloquence, as well as all his powers of leadership to
+accomplish it; but the crisis was upon them, and he would be false to
+himself if he did not meet the issue squarely.</p>
+
+<p>"Will you listen to me, fellows?" he said, quietly, stepping forward to
+occupy the place just vacated by Jack, and managing to whisper to the
+other in passing: "back me up for all you're worth, and we may win the
+day!"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course we will! You're the scout leader, Paul, and when you hatch up
+any game it's sure to be worth the powder. Let her go!" came from Jud,
+who seemed to be a sort of ringleader in this little rebellion in the
+camp.</p>
+
+<p>"All right, boys. I'm going to make a proposition that will take your
+breath away; but I have strong hopes that after what you've listened to
+from that manual to-night, you'll be ready to back me up," continued
+Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"We believe in you, Paul. You never fooled us yet; and you never will.
+What's your queer game?" asked Bobolink, ready to swing over already,
+such was his faith in the one they had elected their leader.</p>
+
+<p>The boys crowded around Paul, more than eager to hear what his proposal
+might turn out to be; for novelty always appeals to the average lad.</p>
+
+<p>"All of you know that old Peleg keeps his dooryard in a horrible
+condition. Why, my mother says she doesn't believe it has been cleaned
+up in years; and he hardly ever takes the trouble to even put his wagons
+and that old buggy in the shed. It's a disgrace to the town to have him
+so near. I've heard that the women talked about asking him to do
+something to make it look cleaner."</p>
+
+<p>"He's a stubborn old man, and can't be driven, my dad says," remarked
+Jud.</p>
+
+<p>"Now here's what I'm going to propose. You know he's pretty deaf, and
+can't hear much that goes on. He used to have a savage dog, but it died
+a couple of weeks ago, and since then he's been trying to get another,
+but so far without success. Get that?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but go on, Paul," demanded Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"Let's go over to Peleg's in a body," continued the scout leader; "and
+while he sleeps clean up that dooryard of his so that in the morning
+he'll just rub his eyes and begin to think the fairies have paid him
+a visit in the night. And when he learns who did it perhaps he may feel
+something like you did, William. Don't you see, <i>it'll be rubbing it in
+good and hard</i>!"</p>
+
+<p>Paul waited to see how his suggestion took.</p>
+
+<p>The boys stared at each other in amazement. It is doubtful whether a
+parcel of wide-awake lads ever before had such a novel proposition made
+to them. And perhaps it was the sensational character of the appeal that
+stirred them more than any desire to return good for evil.</p>
+
+<p>"Count me in that job, Paul," said Jack positively.</p>
+
+<p>He had timed his interruption with exceeding cleverness. Boys are like
+sheep, and given a bell wether they will follow blindly where the leader
+goes.</p>
+
+<p>"Me too!" cried Bobolink, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"Ditto! I'm for the game just as Paul says!" exclaimed Nuthin'.</p>
+
+<p>And every one in the crowd followed suit, laughing at the idea of their
+turning the tables on the old farmer in such an unheard-of fashion;
+though several doubtless secretly scoffed at the project, and only agreed
+because it seemed to be a necessary evil if they wanted to become Boy
+Scouts.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII"></a>CHAPTER VII</h2>
+
+<h3>THE TRAP THAT PELEG SET</h3>
+
+
+<p>"There's Growdy's shack and barns!"</p>
+
+<p>"Don't seem to be anything stirring, fellows!"</p>
+
+<p>"Look out for a trap. Once bitten, twice shy. Perhaps he's just laying
+for some fellers to come along, and play some more paintin' job trick.
+I heard that he said he would find some way to stop the nuisance!"</p>
+
+<p>This from "Red" Betts, who was known as a cautious chap, and able to
+vanish at the first sign of danger better than any fellow in town.</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose we hold up here, and send out scouts to see how the land lies?
+That's the military way of doing it," ventured Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"A good idea, and I appoint you, Bobolink, with Jud Elderkin, to carry
+out the little business," remarked Paul, in a low tone.</p>
+
+<p>"Trot along, you chaps; the rest of us will bunk right here alongside
+the road and wait till you report," and suiting the action to his words
+William dropped in his tracks.</p>
+
+<p>A brief time elapsed, and then the pair of spies returned.</p>
+
+<p>"Not a single light in the house, and the coast clear, fellows; so come
+on!" and Jud waved his long arms as though enjoying his brief assumption
+of authority to the limit.</p>
+
+<p>It would have doubtless astonished the old farmer had he chanced upon the
+scene just then. A young moon hung in the western sky, and while giving
+little light, still the figures of some score of stooping boys might have
+been discovered, advancing in broken formation along the road.</p>
+
+<p>The leader silently opened the gate leading to the dooryard of Growdy's
+place. His barns stood near the house, so that the confusion which
+reigned was all the more noticeable. Its equal had never been known
+around Stanhope; and could only be expected in the case of a place where
+a woman's influence for cleanliness had been totally absent during the
+past ten years.</p>
+
+<p>Over to the stable went some of the boys.</p>
+
+<p>Paul had talked it all over with them as they walked, and each knew what
+part he was to take in the general clean-up.</p>
+
+<p>To some of them it was simply another form of a lark. Boys are queer
+creatures even to those who imagine they know them well. They must be
+doing something all the time. Once get them started in the right
+direction, and they will labor just as sturdily to bring about a good
+object, as under other conditions, they would work to play a joke. It all
+depends on how they begin. And thanks to the sagacity of Paul, he had
+succeeded in interesting them in the novelty of his proposal.</p>
+
+<p>Some secured rakes and hoes, and began to systematically gather up the
+scattered loose material that covered the place, ankle deep. Others
+pushed the wagons, and the old dilapidated buggy, back into the shed in
+systematic order.</p>
+
+<p>They worked like busy bees, chuckling, whispering and evidently getting
+considerable fun out of the strange frolic.</p>
+
+<p>Paul himself went over the job to make sure that it had been thoroughly
+done, and that nothing remained uncared for.</p>
+
+<p>Up to this time fortune had favored the busy workers, since no sound had
+come about to betray their presence.</p>
+
+<p>"How is it, Paul?" asked Jack Stormways, as he ran across the other in
+making his rounds.</p>
+
+<p>"About at the end. The boys are putting the old tools back where they
+found them; and then we can go home. It's the best half hour's work
+any of us have done for a good while, I tell you, Jack."</p>
+
+<p>"Some of the boys don't seem to think it quite so funny now as when they
+started in. They say they can't see where the pay is going to come in,
+and have begun to grumble," whispered the other.</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps it never will, and again, who knows what might come out of this?
+Anyhow, the ladies will be glad to see this dirty place clean for once.
+Some others I know may take a notion that if Old Growdy can clean up they
+ought to. Listen! what in the world is that?"</p>
+
+<p>A rattling of tin pans came to their ears, as if one of the boys in
+prowling around had accidently upset a bench on which a milk bucket and
+some flat tinware had been airing.</p>
+
+<p>"That settles it! He'll hear all that row and be out on us in a jiffy!"
+said Paul, annoyed because the affair had not gone off according to
+schedule.</p>
+
+<p>"Look! there's a light sprung up inside the house. He's getting his
+trousers on, all right, and the sooner we skip out the better!" declared
+Jack.</p>
+
+<p>The boys now came running from every direction, while sounds from within
+the nearby farmhouse told that Old Peleg must be switching on his heavy
+boots.</p>
+
+<p>So Paul, knowing that the only thing left now was a hasty flight, gave
+the signal arranged for. It meant every fellow for himself until they
+had put a reasonable distance between themselves and the seat of danger.
+Then they could meet at a given place, and go home, laughing over the
+whole affair, and wondering what Peleg would think when he saw what a
+miraculous transformation had taken place while he slept.</p>
+
+<p>Paul happened to be the very last to run away. Instead of passing out by
+way of the gate as most of the others did, Paul started to pass over the
+fence at an inviting point, where two of the bars seemed to be down, and
+he could gain the adjoining woodlot, from which he might reach the road
+at his pleasure.</p>
+
+<p>But alas! the best of plans often go amiss. And that gap that yawned in
+the fence proved a delusion and a snare.</p>
+
+<p>Hardly had Paul made the jump over the two lower bars than he found
+himself suddenly jerked down, and his head came with a crash on the
+ground, causing him to see a myriad of stars.</p>
+
+<p>Nor was this all. An unknown power at the same time seemed to lift his
+lower extremities up in the air at least two feet, so that he appeared to
+be trying to swim on dry land.</p>
+
+<p>For a moment he was puzzled to account for this remarkable happening;
+but as his head cleared a bit, and the stars ceased to shoot before his
+mental vision, he began to get an idea as to what had happened.</p>
+
+<p>Apparently the fellows who had painted the farmer's pigs on the other
+night must have entered his place from the woods, and through this gap
+in the fence.</p>
+
+<p>Old Peleg had remembered, and anticipating another invasion sooner or
+later, he had succeeded in arranging some sort of ingenious trap on the
+spot.</p>
+
+<p>In jumping Paul had set off the trigger, with the consequence that a
+noose had instantly tightened around his ankles, and a hogshead partly
+filled with stones, starting to roll down the slope, had drawn his legs
+upward.</p>
+
+<p>Well, at any rate there he was, clinging to the grass, and with an unseen
+force pulling at his elevated feet, so that he was helpless to assist
+himself.</p>
+
+<p>It was very funny, no doubt, but Paul hardly felt like laughing, just
+then. He tried to wriggle around so as to get at the loop, in the hope
+that he might loosen the same; but all his efforts were wasted.</p>
+
+<p>Old Peleg had builded better than he expected when he set that trap in
+which to catch his tormentors.</p>
+
+<p>He was coming now to see the result of his cunning. No doubt he had heard
+the tremendous rattle as the bulging barrel of stones started to roll
+down the slope after being liberated; for even a deaf man could hardly
+have missed that racket. Lantern in hand he was even now hobbling along,
+chuckling in anticipation of what he would find in his trap.</p>
+
+<p>Closer came the limping farmer. Paul saw now that he held a vicious black
+whip in his right hand, while gripping a lighted lantern in the other.</p>
+
+<p>Laughter in the distance told that the boys had all taken themselves off.
+They could not suspect what a dire calamity had befallen their leader, or
+a rescue party must have certainly been formed.</p>
+
+<p>Another minute and Peleg had arrived at the fence, and bending over held
+the lantern so that its light fell upon the figure of his captive.</p>
+
+<p>"Gut ye, have I? Mebbe ye'll try to paint some critters of mine agin, an'
+mebbe ye won't!" said the farmer, as he raised the ugly black whip which
+he held, with the evident intention of bringing it down good and hard on
+the helpless boy.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII"></a>CHAPTER VIII</h2>
+
+<h3>TURNING THE TABLES</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Wait, Mr. Growdy!" Paul hastened to exclaim.</p>
+
+<p>The old man laughed harshly as he flourished the whip. Perhaps he had
+never struck a boy before in all his life, and hardly knew how to begin;
+but his temper was plainly disturbed, and he meant to make a start.</p>
+
+<p>"What should I wait fur, when I cort ye in the very act? Paint my
+critters red, white an' blue, will ye? P'raps ye wanted to pull all the
+feathers out o' my flock o' chickens this time, an' think it funny. Sarve
+ye right if I gi'e ye a dozen stripes!"</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Growdy, I did you a favor once!" said the prisoner of the trap,
+wishing to keep the old man as long as possible from starting operations.</p>
+
+<p>"Say ye so? Wall, this wipes it out then. Who air ye, anyway?"</p>
+
+<p>The farmer bent lower, and thrust his lantern so that its light would
+fall upon the face of the boy. Immediately he uttered a grunt, for it was
+plain that he had recognized his captive.</p>
+
+<p>"So, it's ye, is it, Paul Morrison? This is some surprise, seein' as
+ye're the last boy I'd expect to be up ter sech meanness. What d'ye think
+yer father'll say w'en he hears 'bout this?"</p>
+
+<p>"I guess he'll laugh, and say it was about the cutest trick ever played
+on you, Mr. Growdy," came the immediate answer; "but please get me down
+from this. Perhaps the blood will all run to my head. Tie my hands if you
+want, and fix it so I can't run away; but I couldn't stand this long."</p>
+
+<p>"So ye think yer father'd larf, do ye? I never wud 'a' b'lieved Doctor
+Morrison was the kind o' man to encourage practical jokes on anybody,"
+grumbled the old man, plainly at a loss to understand what was meant.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, he isn't, and I'd be sorry to have him know I was guilty of such
+a thing. But you're barking up the wrong tree, Mr. Growdy, I give you my
+word we none of us had any trick in mind when we came here to-night."</p>
+
+<p>"Then what took you in my dooryard here; for I heard a pack runnin' away
+when I kim out of the house? Tell me that, Paul," insisted the farmer;
+but the hand that held that cruel looking whip had fallen to his side,
+which was a good sign.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll be only too glad to do so if you let me up. Tie my hands, my legs
+too if you want, sir; but I'm getting dizzy from having my head below
+my heels."</p>
+
+<p>Peleg stooped still closer. He again held the lantern down so that he
+could look into the face of his prisoner; after which he did something
+that Paul had hardly expected&mdash;bent over, seized the rope connected with
+the laden hogshead, and pulling hard succeeded in casting the loop that
+had just encircled Paul's ankles, over a post of the fence.</p>
+
+<p>"Get up, Paul!" he said, grimly, yet with a flicker of curiosity in his
+wrinkled face; as though a dim suspicion that there might be something
+out of the ordinary back of this, had begun to take possession of his
+mind.</p>
+
+<p>Paul regained his feet, a little wobbly to be sure, for he had
+experienced a bad fall, and his head felt rather tender where it had
+come in contact with the hard ground.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, Mr. Growdy. And now I'm going to tell you something. Perhaps
+you will find it hard to believe me, and again you may not just
+appreciate our way of taking matters in our own hands, when the request
+of the women of Stanhope didn't have any effect. Look around your
+dooryard, Mr. Growdy. Do you see anything changed here?"</p>
+
+<p>The farmer held up the lantern, and what he saw caused him to utter an
+exclamation.</p>
+
+<p>"Ev'ry one o' 'em gone, by hokey! If so be ye've smashed all my rigs,
+Paul Morison, I'll have the law on ye, as sure as my name's Peleg
+Growdy!" he roared, aghast at what he deemed a serious discovery.</p>
+
+<p>"Come with me, Mr. Growdy. Notice as you go that this place doesn't look
+much like a pigpen now. In fact, I calculate it's as clean as any
+dooryard around Stanhope. Even the ladies can drive past now without
+being shocked. And Mr. Growdy, if you will take the trouble, sir, to look
+under that wagon shed, you'll see every one of your vehicles just where
+they should be when not in use!"</p>
+
+<p>The old man stared, as well he might.</p>
+
+<p>"By gum!" Paul heard him mutter; and the words seemed to express the
+situation so well that the boy could hardly keep from laughing outright.</p>
+
+<p>Finally the puzzled farmer turned and looked at the lad who stood there
+beside him. Easily might Paul have made his escape at any time now; but
+that was really the last thing he thought of doing. He would much rather
+remain and see the bewilderment of Peleg Growdy reach its conclusion.</p>
+
+<p>"Look here, Paul, what's this hull thing mean?" finally demanded the
+farmer.</p>
+
+<p>And Paul, remembering the fact that the old man was hard of hearing,
+raised his voice as he thought fit when making reply.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you want me to tell you the whole thing, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"I sartin do, every word. Blest if I kin make head or tail out o' it.
+Reckons as how them leetle fairy twins ye read about must 'a' ben workin'
+wile I slept; er else I'm dreamin' things that caint be true."</p>
+
+<p>"Listen, Mr. Growdy," Paul went on. "Perhaps you may not know that we
+have started a troop of the Boy Scouts here in Stanhope. Some twenty of
+us have joined, and later on we hope to get uniforms, and other things
+needed, when we have earned the money to buy them. Those boys you heard
+running away were my friends and comrades, every one going to be a true
+scout."</p>
+
+<p>"Soldier bummers then, out on a raid, and ready to kerry off everything
+they kin lay hands on," grumbled the old man, still unable to grasp the
+true condition of affairs.</p>
+
+<p>"At a meeting to-night in Mr. Shipley's barn we made further progress
+looking to perfecting our organization. But boys will be boys, you know;
+and one of our number asked the rest to help him get even with you,
+because you forced him into the ditch this afternoon, upsetting his
+wagon."</p>
+
+<p>Old Growdy moved uneasily.</p>
+
+<p>"I was real sorry to see William do that. If he'd only waited till I
+lighted my pipe I 'spected to pull out a leetle more, so's to let him git
+by; but he was that impatient he must push on," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Just as I thought. Well, Mr. Growdy, one of the rules of the scouts is
+that a member must never return an evil deed by another of the same kind.
+I proposed that we try to make you change your mind about detesting all
+boys. So we came here, not to paint your pigs as some other fellows did,
+I'm told; not to let your stock loose, or run off with your wagons; but
+to clean up your dooryard, and give you the greatest surprise of your
+life when you came out in the morning!"</p>
+
+<p>"Sho! now. That takes the cake!"</p>
+
+<p>"When one of my chums upset that bench by accident, and the pans fell
+with a racket, of course it gave the whole thing away, and we started to
+run; but unfortunately I happened to drop into your nice little trap, and
+you found me upside down. That is all, Mr. Growdy. Do you want to whip me
+now, or take me in to the lockup, which?"</p>
+
+<p>Peleg Growdy found himself strangely thrilled as he looked into that
+frank, smiling face of Paul Morrison.</p>
+
+<p>For almost a full minute they stood thus.</p>
+
+<p>Then Peleg spoke.</p>
+
+<p>"Reckon as how them comrades o' yers must 'a' gut a long start by now,
+Paul. S'pose ye see if ye kin ketch up with 'em, son."</p>
+
+<p>That was all, but as Paul hurried off he was conscious of a strange
+feeling deep down in his breast; and he felt sure that after all it had
+paid. Peleg Growdy at least had met with the surprise of his life. After
+this possibly his ideas of juvenile depravity might undergo a violent
+change; for such positive natures as his usually swing from one extreme
+to the other, just like the pendulum of a grandfather clock.</p>
+
+<p>Paul did not catch up with his fleeing comrades, for they had secured
+too good a start. When he reached the rendezvous, however, he found them
+there, one and all, and wondering what could have happened to detain him.</p>
+
+<p>Loud were the expressions of astonishment as he calmly announced that
+having been caught in a trap, he had held a face to face talk with Peleg
+Growdy himself; when he managed to relate the whole surprising adventure
+the boys were stunned at the possible consequences of their little prank.</p>
+
+<p>Those who had considered it only in the light of a joke began to see that
+Paul had something deeper in mind when he proposed such a thing.</p>
+
+<p>All the way home Paul was kept busy repeating some of the things he had
+said to the irate farmer. It gave those lads something to ponder over
+when by themselves. Possibly they had never before realized what a
+powerful lever for good such a method of returning a grudge may become.</p>
+
+<p>Paul himself was delighted. Even if nothing more came of it he could look
+back to the little adventure with satisfaction such as Ted Slavin and
+his cronies might never feel with regard to their prank.</p>
+
+<p>And the next morning Paul was not at all ashamed to relate the entire
+circumstance at the breakfast table. He felt amply repaid when he saw the
+look of pride upon his mother's face, as she turned her eyes, filled with
+unshed tears, upon him and said gently:</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad you did it, Paul. I know the history of poor Peleg Growdy; and
+surely he has had enough of trouble during his life to make him different
+from the rest of his kind. The milk of human kindness has perhaps been
+dried up in his breast; yet who knows, my boy, but that you may have set
+him to thinking by that one little act of yours. I shall never fear for
+you, Paul, whatever betides."</p>
+
+<p>His father, the doctor, was a man of few words; but that morning when he
+was going off on his round of visits he did an unusual thing&mdash;took Paul's
+hand, and gave it an affectionate squeeze, while the look that
+accompanied the action needed no further explanation.</p>
+
+<p>And Paul was many times satisfied.</p>
+
+<p>That day and others saw a growing buzz of excitement in the town of
+Stanhope. It seemed as though nearly every boy over the age of twelve,
+yes and even under, might be filled with a burning zeal to join the new
+troops that were being started under two different scout leaders.</p>
+
+<p>Ward Kenwood had entered heart and soul into the work, which seemed to
+appeal to him; but there were those who secretly believed he was more
+concerned about opposing his rival, Paul Morrison, than in building up
+a second troop of scouts that would be a credit to the place.</p>
+
+<p>Ted Slavin, of course, worked hand in glove with his friend, Ward. If
+money counted for anything they had no reason to complain; for inside of
+a week there blossomed out numerous boys clad in the new khaki uniforms
+that distinguish the Boy Scouts everywhere.</p>
+
+<p>Some of Paul's friends felt grieved because they had failed to get their
+equipments as soon as the others; but nothing could disturb the scout
+leader.</p>
+
+<p>"You'll see that they are bound to meet up with a snag when they apply
+for admission to the real organization. They can't subscribe to many of
+the rules. Then again you know that the real scout scorns to receive his
+uniform as a gift. Everything he owns must be earned. But most of us are
+nearly ready to send for suits. Wait a little longer. The race is not
+always to the swift."</p>
+
+<p>In this fashion then did wise Paul bring peace to the troubled hearts of
+those anxious ones. Never a member of the new Fox Patrols that sought an
+interview with the scout leader but who came away feeling that there was
+not a cloud in the sky of their future.</p>
+
+<p>In this manner a week, and then ten days, drifted along, with the opening
+of school looming up in the near future.</p>
+
+<p>Paul had almost forgotten the troubles of his chum when one day he had
+the fact suddenly brought to his attention again, as Jack came upon him
+with a face upon which rested the same old cloud of anxiety and grief.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX"></a>CHAPTER IX</h2>
+
+<h3>"WELL DONE, MY BOY!"</h3>
+
+
+<p>"There, some more gone, Paul!"</p>
+
+<p>"But it's nearly ten days since we talked it over last, and then there
+were, let me see, I believe six coins left," returned the other, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"That's true enough. And I can see now that you're wondering why none
+have been taken all this time, up to to-day," remarked Jack, as he came
+alongside his chum, who was looking in at a window where sporting goods
+made a brave display.</p>
+
+<p>"Will Carlo hang around and wait for you a bit?" asked Paul, looking with
+a smile toward the big Newfoundland dog that had been trotting at the
+heels of his young master, carrying a basket, in which were several
+packages from the store.</p>
+
+<p>"Sure. He's well trained, and that is one of the smallest of his stunts,
+as you know. See, he has laid the basket down, and stands guard over it.
+I dare any dog in Stanhope to try and take it away. Now, you want to know
+about my poor old batch of coins!"</p>
+
+<p>"I'm waiting to hear, old fellow," said Paul, tenderly; for he could see
+that his chum was once again highly charged with emotion.</p>
+
+<p>"I thought I'd try a scheme unbeknown to you," began the other, slowly.</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps I can guess what you did&mdash;was it that you locked the door of
+your little den, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, now, you are a champion guesser, for that was just what I did,
+every day up to this one&mdash;shut down the window, locked the door, and
+never went up there once," replied his comrade, with surprise written
+on his face.</p>
+
+<p>"And nothing was missing?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not a coin. I counted six myself this morning when I went upstairs just
+to get something out of the snuggery."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you forget to lock it after you, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; but an idea came to me. At the time I thought it a bright one; but
+now I'm more than half sorry I ever tried it."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! then you left the door unlocked again on purpose?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and with the window open, at that. The invitation was plain
+enough," murmured Jack, with dejection in his voice and manner.</p>
+
+<p>Paul seemed to ponder over the matter; and indeed it was quite enough to
+try any boy's wits.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you happen to know if any fellow called to see you to-day while you
+were out?" he asked, presently.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, I thought of that, and asked both my brother and Maggie to pay
+particular attention to it, if any boy stopped over, hoping I would come
+in."</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing doing?"</p>
+
+<p>"It's kind of queer, but do you know, for a wonder not a single fellow
+has been at our house this blessed day. Generally half a dozen call to
+see me, you know, to borrow books from my library, or talk over matters
+connected with our school society. It just looks as if everything wanted
+to mix me up worse than ever, and make me think&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Never mind what it makes you think," interrupted Paul, quickly,
+squeezing the arm of his chum affectionately; "let's get down to facts.
+You know I promised that I'd find out the truth about this matter; and
+while up to now I've given it mighty little attention, don't think that
+I've forgotten, Jack."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't; only it bothers me to understand how you can ever expect to
+find out who's taking my old coins, if I've made a mess of it; and living
+in the house at that!" rejoined the other, with bewilderment plainly
+visible on his face.</p>
+
+<p>"Leave that to me. I repeat my promise, and if everything else fails why,
+what's going to hinder my hiding up there behind some of your stuff,
+where I can see for myself what happens?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh!" exclaimed Jack, "that would be a clever idea; but much as I want to
+know the truth, I'm afraid to!"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you've got to get over that feeling. No matter what happens it's
+far better to know the worst; for then it may be remedied. I've heard my
+father tell of many a desperate case where only heroic treatment, as he
+called it, brought his patient through. We've just got to try it here,
+Jack, old fellow. Hello! what d'ye suppose all that row's about?"</p>
+
+<p>"Sounds to me like a runaway horse, from the shouts," declared Jack,
+quickly forgetting his own personal troubles in the new excitement.</p>
+
+<p>"Look! There's the runaway, and coming this way around the corner. Oh! it
+was nearly over that time! My heart was in my mouth!" cried Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"There's some one in the wagon, Paul, a little child!" almost shrieked
+Jack; for the clamor was deafening by now, and ordinary sounds could
+never have been heard.</p>
+
+<p>No need to tell Paul that. He had just made the astounding discovery
+himself, and was thrilled with sudden horror.</p>
+
+<p>It was a little boy who was tugging at the lines with a heroism worthy of
+one twice his size; but such a young person could make no impression on
+the hard mouth of that terrorized animal.</p>
+
+<p>In the sudden whirl around the corner the lad had come very near being
+thrown but, and was even now unsteadily trying to regain his balance.</p>
+
+<p>Paul knew that it was an occasion for quick thinking, and even faster
+doing!</p>
+
+<p>He bounded away from the side of his chum as though on springs, leaving
+Jack standing there on the curb, filled with eager anticipation, and
+fears.</p>
+
+<p>It was not <i>toward</i> the rapidly advancing horse that the boy ran, but in
+exactly the opposite direction, as though he were being chased. With the
+wagon flinging about from side to side, and hindering the progress of the
+runaway to some extent, Paul believed that he could almost hold his own
+in the race.</p>
+
+<p>Little by little he meant to let the horse overtake him. Then, at just
+the right second his chance would come to jump at the animal's head,
+seize upon the lines close to the bit, and throw his entire weight upon
+them.</p>
+
+<p>He knew that it called for good judgment, since the slightest mistake
+would be apt to cost him dear. To be thrown under the iron-shod hoofs of
+the galloping animal might mean making him a cripple for the rest of his
+life.</p>
+
+<p>Even that possibility did not daunt Paul. He only saw the frightened face
+of the little chap who so valorously clung to the lines, and shouted
+shrilly at the top of his childish voice, as though expecting the usually
+tractable horse to mind.</p>
+
+<p>A human life in peril&mdash;that was one of the cardinal points that must call
+for action on the part of a true Boy Scout. He might refuse to engage in
+a sanguinary battle with some rival who had dared him to a fight; but
+under no conditions must he hold back when the chance offered to do a
+good deed.</p>
+
+<p>Now the horse was just behind him, and still galloping furiously. If
+anything, the animal was making more desperate headway than ever, for
+the outcries on every side seemed to add to his fright.</p>
+
+<p>Every eye was focussed on the runner. One man in a vehicle had drawn in
+his horse, and with white cheeks watched the remarkable scene.</p>
+
+<p>If any among that throng had reason to send up a silent prayer for the
+safety of that daring lad just then, surely he might. For the man in the
+buggy was Doctor Alan Morrison, Paul's own father!</p>
+
+<p>Five seconds passed, but it seemed an hour, a day, a life-time to that
+man, as his heart ceased to beat, and he gripped the reins convulsively
+in his clenched hands.</p>
+
+<p>Then the heavens seemed to almost split with the sudden outburst of wild
+shouts that raced up and down that street.</p>
+
+<p>"He's done it! Hurrah! The boy's stopped him! Bully for Paul Morrison!"</p>
+
+<p>Men shouted, boys shrieked, while women embraced in their tears. The
+tense strain was over, for willing hands had clutched the lines after
+Paul's weight had brought the wild runaway to a staggering halt; and the
+danger was past.</p>
+
+<p>Then ensued a wild scene, everybody trying to get hold of the boy who had
+known what to do in an emergency, and not only that, but had done it.</p>
+
+<p>Confused, overwhelmed, Paul in the great confusion tried to flee; but
+while he did manage to duck under many of the hands outstretched to
+clutch him, it was only to dart into the arms of some one who pressed him
+to his heart.</p>
+
+<p>And looking up the boy saw above him the face of one whom he loved&mdash;his
+father, who had been a witness to his adventure.</p>
+
+<p>"That was well done, my boy; and I'm glad I saw it!" was all the good
+doctor said; but Paul never forgot the proud look that accompanied the
+words.</p>
+
+<p>It would return to him many times in the distant future, when he might be
+tempted by the fascinations of the world to turn aside from the narrow
+path which he had chosen to tread; and must ever be a guide and beacon
+for his footsteps.</p>
+
+<p>Then came Jack, with William, Tom Betts and Bluff Shipley, all nearly
+wild over the fact that it was their chum who had acquitted himself so
+well.</p>
+
+<p>Before Paul could make his escape he found his hand gripped by the father
+of the child in the wagon, who happened to be a prosperous farmer, with
+whom Doctor Morrison was well acquainted.</p>
+
+<p>"I never could tell you what I think about this, my boy," he said, with
+deep feeling. "The child's mother'll never forget you, be sure of that.
+And it ain't right for me to offer you any reward for doing such a fine
+thing; but I want you to buy something with this ten dollars, that every
+time you look at it you'll remember little Tod Perkins, what owed his
+life to you."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I couldn't think of it, Mr. Perkins. Why, it was just pie to me, you
+know. Please don't make me take it!" said the boy, still more confused;
+but the farmer had already turned away to embrace his child, and there
+seemed nothing for it but to accept the gift.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't offend him by refusing, Paul; he means well, and perhaps you can
+buy something with it that will serve as a reminder," said the doctor,
+always trying to avoid hurting other people's feelings.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, sure, what's to hinder you buying your scout's uniform with it?"
+declared William at this juncture.</p>
+
+<p>"You certain earned it, if anybody ever did work for what they got!"
+avowed Bobolink, positively.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! w-w-why wasn't it m-m-me?" wailed Bluff, in pretended grief.</p>
+
+<p>"Say, do you think you could have nailed that runaway horse, with such an
+impediment twisting you up?" demanded Bobolink, grinning.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, boys, since you say so, I suppose then I'll just have to accept
+it, and call my outfit earned by the sweat of my brow," laughed Paul,
+taking out his handkerchief to wipe his face from its collection of
+perspiration and dust.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X"></a>CHAPTER X</h2>
+
+<h3>AN UNEXPECTED OFFER</h3>
+
+
+<p>Paul and his chum managed to break away finally, and walk toward the home
+of the latter. Jack had his arm through that of the other, and it seemed
+as though he felt happier over the recent exploit than the one who had
+occupied the centre of the stage.</p>
+
+<p>"My heart seemed to be up in my mouth just when you made that grab for
+the bit. I believe I would have fallen in a fit if you had gone under,
+Paul," said Jack, with a big sigh, as he pressed the arm he held.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I was a little worried myself that something might upset me just
+then. But luck favored me, you know. I'm more than glad, because it would
+have given my mother a bad shock if I'd been trampled on. But please drop
+that subject, old fellow," said Paul, making a wry face.</p>
+
+<p>"I will, since you ask it; but they won't forget it in the town for a
+long time. Such things happen only once a year or more around dull old
+Stanhope. To-night we meet to see how many have the money earned for the
+suits; and I'm glad to say I can cover my needs. You're doubly supplied
+now, with this windfall."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and I wish I could help some other fellow out; but I'm afraid that
+would be against the rules of the game. Here we are at your house, and
+bless me if Carlo hasn't carried that basket of provisions straight back
+to the kitchen door. Say, he <i>is</i> a trump, sure enough, Jack."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! that's dead easy for Carlo. Why, we often put a nickel in the
+basket, and send him down to the bakery for a loaf of bread," laughed the
+other.</p>
+
+<p>"And does he always get it?" asked Paul, looking suddenly interested.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't believe he's failed for six months. Of course Mr. Crusty knows
+what we want, and wraps the loaf up so as to keep the dust off. Why, that
+ain't the best of his tricks, by a long shot. I taught him when he was
+hungry to go&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Excuse me, won't you, Jack; there comes father, and I do believe he's
+heading home long before his usual time. Perhaps he's afraid mother may
+hear that something has happened to me, and would be anxious. I'd better
+jump in with him, don't you think? Another time I'll hear all about the
+wonderful stunts of Carlo."</p>
+
+<p>And so speaking Paul ran out to join his father in the buggy.</p>
+
+<p>Jack looked after him, and sighed heavily. It was not that he felt a
+particle jealous of the recent exploit which his chum had engineered so
+successfully; for envy was not one of his failings. But he did wish that
+his mind was as free from anxiety and suspicion as that of Paul Morrison.</p>
+
+<p>For the mystery of those disappearing coins hung about his neck like a
+millstone, nor could he ever know peace again until in some way it were
+explained.</p>
+
+<p>What happened at the Morrison home when the doctor told the story of his
+boy's heroism no one ever knew; for Paul was not the one to betray family
+secrets.</p>
+
+<p>But Jack, who understood what an affectionate mother his chum had, could
+easily imagine how she wrapped her arms about the boy, and pressed him
+again and again to her bosom, thanking Heaven that the child she had
+watched grow from babyhood until he was now almost as tall as his father,
+should show signs of proving himself a worthy successor to the "good
+Doctor," as every one knew him.</p>
+
+<p>That night the boys had the darkness to contend with when they started
+for the place of meeting, though the late moon might show her smiling
+face before the time came for them to return home.</p>
+
+<p>There were just twenty-two who reported at roll call that evening at
+eight, and one need only glance around at the faces of the boys, both
+large and small, to be positive that the enthusiasm, instead of dying
+out, was increasing by leaps and bounds.</p>
+
+<p>When the meeting had been called to order, the one subject that
+interested those gathered was the question of obtaining their uniforms
+and other outfit.</p>
+
+<p>A warm discussion arose shortly when Jack asked for information
+concerning the right of any scout to assist a fellow member who might be
+behind in earning the necessary amount.</p>
+
+<p>Some believed one way, while others seemed to look at it in another
+light, and not a few were, as Jack said, "on the fence."</p>
+
+<p>"Listen, fellows, and I'll tell you what I gathered from studying the
+books on the Boy Scout movement loaned me by the minister. Here are
+twenty or more of us, and we need just so much money for an outfit. Some
+can show much more than they need, others fall short, although they may
+have worked even harder. Is that plain?" and Jack looked around at the
+eager faces as he put the question.</p>
+
+<p>"It certainly is," remarked Paul, smiling; "some are born rich, others
+earn riches, and once in a while some lucky chap has the money stuck
+right in his hand. I'm one of the last class. But go on, Jack; for I know
+you've got a bright idea that may help us out of this hole."</p>
+
+<p>"The answer is easy, fellows. We must make a common fund. Then every
+member can put in all he wants, so long as it has been honestly earned.
+See my plan?"</p>
+
+<p>"Sure, and it goes. That's the answer to the problem. Let's try it out
+and see how near we can come to the amount needed," said Jud Elderkin,
+briskly; starting to pass around slips of paper and a pencil.</p>
+
+<p>"Put down what you can hand over to the general fund, each fellow; and
+remember it means cash, to be delivered to-morrow, and not credit," he
+announced.</p>
+
+<p>There was the utmost eagerness to carry out the idea, and before five
+minutes had passed every boy had written his name on a slip of paper,
+together with the full amount which he could contribute to the general
+fund.</p>
+
+<p>"I appoint Jud and Bobolink a committee to canvass the vote, and count up
+the amount subscribed," said Paul, as chairman of the meeting.</p>
+
+<p>It did not take very long, though the two boys were seen to go over their
+figures several times in order to make sure there could be no error.</p>
+
+<p>"Look at the grins on their faces! Don't that tell the story, fellows!
+Hurrah!" shouted Nuthin'.</p>
+
+<p>And when the amount was declared it was found that it far exceeded the
+actual sum needed to purchase uniforms for the entire twenty-two scouts,
+including hats and leggings.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't forget that I've just got to have a bugle, fellows. What use is it
+to be elected bugler if you can't bugle?" exclaimed Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"And m-m-me for a d-d-d-d-d-drum!" echoed Bluff, excitedly; when he was
+immediately pounced upon as usual, and pounded several times on the back.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, do get Bluff something he can beat. I've heard him drum, and he's
+just a corker at it. It keeps him from talking, you know," laughed Tom
+Betts.</p>
+
+<p>"Hello!" exclaimed Nuthin' suddenly; "look who's here, fellows!"</p>
+
+<p>All eyes were immediately turned toward the door, and focussed upon the
+figure that stood just within the barn, having entered while they were
+boisterously exchanging these compliments.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, it's Mr. Growdy!" said Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Old Peleg!" echoed Bobolink, in a hushed tone.</p>
+
+<p>One and all stared at the crusty old farmer, who for years had avoided
+all boys as though he thought them a dangerous breed of animals which it
+were safer to let severely alone.</p>
+
+<p>When Paul saw the amused smile creeping over the rugged and seamed face
+of the old farmer he understood that Peleg had really experienced a
+wonderful change of heart, dating from that night when the new Boy Scouts
+cleaned up his dooryard as an object lesson.</p>
+
+<p>And now Peleg was coming slowly forward, looking a bit awkward; since he
+had never been accustomed to facing an audience, and especially one
+composed of boys.</p>
+
+<p>They made way for him, so that presently he found himself completely
+surrounded by an eager throng.</p>
+
+<p>"Glad to see you, Mr. Growdy," said Paul, holding out his hand
+impulsively; and to the surprise of the others it was eagerly seized upon
+by the calloused fingers of the toiler in the fields; "these are the
+friends I spoke to you about. And this is the Fox Patrol of the newly
+organized Boy Scouts."</p>
+
+<p>Peleg grinned, and acknowledged the introduction by ducking his touseled
+head.</p>
+
+<p>"Glad to meet ye, boys. I've be'n hearin' quite considerable 'bout what
+ye was adoin' over here, an' I thort as how I'd jest drap in to see ye
+all; sorter like returnin' yer call, so to speak!" he said, again
+allowing a humorous look to appear upon his face.</p>
+
+<p>And somehow the boys instantly concluded that when Peleg allowed the
+lines of his severe face to relax, he was rather a jolly old chap after
+all.</p>
+
+<p>"Hurrah! Three cheers for Mr. Peleg Growdy!" exclaimed one of those who
+felt relieved to think that his coming meant no trouble after all.</p>
+
+<p>But the farmer raised his hand.</p>
+
+<p>"Jest wait till I has my little say, boys. Now, at fust I was kinder
+riled that a passel o' boys shud 'a' took me to task on account o' my
+way o' lettin' things run loose like at my place. But I gotter thinkin'
+her over, and by hokey if it didn't jest come home to me. Times was when
+my dooryard was the puttiest around all Stanhope, with the flowers
+abloomin', an' every scrap tidied up; but in them happy days Mandy an'
+the kids was there, ye see; an' sense they was took it 'peared like I
+never cared what things looked like; an' that's a fact, boys."</p>
+
+<p>The old man seemed to swallow something that threatened to choke him; and
+then, while the boys hung on his every word, and wondered how they had
+ever come to misunderstand him as they had, he went on:</p>
+
+<p>"But I kim to the conclusion, arter thet kind visit ye paid me, thet I
+owed a duty to the community, and it warn't right for any citizen to let
+his place look disgraceful. So arter this nobody ain't agoin' to be
+ashamed to pass by the yard where Mandy 'tended the rose bushes, and her
+tots played from morn to night. I jest drapped in here to thank ye right
+hearty boys, for showin' me wot was wantin'. Arter this there ain't never
+agoin' to be any trouble between me an' the boys o' Stanhope. They kin
+count on old Peleg Growdy to contribute to every sport that goes to
+cultivate the mind and body in the right direction!"</p>
+
+<p>He seemed a vastly different man as he stood there and said this, for his
+head was thrown back, his eyes flashed, and his face was almost friendly
+in its expression, the old haggard look having for the time being
+disappeared.</p>
+
+<p>"Again I say, three cheers for Mr. Growdy!" called Joe Clausin.</p>
+
+<p>"Wait a bit, fellers. I got somethin' more to say," pleaded the old man,
+once again lifting his hand to still the rising tumult.</p>
+
+<p>Paul smiled, for he could give a pretty shrewd guess as to what was
+coming; and it certainly did him good to realize how their odd little
+scheme was turning out to be such a glorious success.</p>
+
+<p>Every voice was hushed, and once more the throng waited for the farmer to
+explain.</p>
+
+<p>"I've been ahearin' a good lot about wot ye're all adoin' with this Boy
+Scout business. Kinder got me interested, an' I borried some books o' the
+dominie jest so I could understand wot 'twas all about. An' I want to say
+I like the ijee fust rate. If I hed any boys o' my own," and his voice
+faltered right there, "I'd sure encourage 'em to jine in with ye. Seein'
+as I ain't, an' on account o' the good turn ye done me t'other night,
+boys, I'm goin' to ask a favor o' ye. I ain't got nary a kid to leave
+my money to when I go; and so I hope ye'll let me pay for fittin' this
+here Fox Patrol out with uniforms! That's my ijee, boys, an' it'll give
+me great joy if so be ye take me up!"</p>
+
+<p>They looked at each other for a minute, speechless with astonishment.</p>
+
+<p>Then being real boys they found their voices with a rush. No need now for
+Tom Butts or Joe Clausin to suggest three cheers. That old barn fairly
+rocked with the volume of sound that burst forth, as every fellow swung
+his hat in the air, and tried his best to give his feelings free rein.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI"></a>CHAPTER XI</h2>
+
+<h3>CAUGHT NAPPING</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Silence!"</p>
+
+<p>The tumult died away as quickly as it had sprung into being, when Paul
+held up his right hand and made this request.</p>
+
+<p>All being still again, he turned to the grinning old farmer, who was
+doubtless getting more solid satisfaction out of this new experience than
+he had obtained from any clever dicker or trade engineered in the last
+ten years.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Growdy," said Paul, with considerable of feeling in his voice, "as
+the present scout leader of Stanhope Troop No. 1 of the Boy Scouts, I
+want to thank you sincerely for your generous offer. We all appreciate
+the kindly spirit that causes you to make it to us. But unfortunately it
+happens that the rules of our organization will not allow us to accept."</p>
+
+<p>Peleg's face fell several degrees at this.</p>
+
+<p>"Say, couldn't ye jest make an exception this time, boys?" he pleaded.
+"I'll feel right hurt if I ain't 'lowed to help on this business some.
+Wot's a hundred dollars beside the new speerit ye've managed somehow to
+start up in me? If ye need more, by gum! ye kin hev it! I ain't no hog,
+if I hev let the people think so this long time."</p>
+
+<p>"Sorry to say so, Mr. Growdy, but we can't accept. Besides, we have all
+earned enough money now to pay for what we need, and expect to send away
+to-morrow to get our suits," Paul went on; and even while he was talking
+a bright idea came flashing into his brain.</p>
+
+<p>"Wall, now that's jest too bad, boys. I'd calkerlated to spend that
+hundred on doin' a good deed, an' ye make me go back home with the same
+hugged tight in my pocket. I'm sorry it cain't be did, I am, sure,"
+muttered the farmer, shaking his head, and acting like a child that has
+been cheated out of some anticipated pleasure.</p>
+
+<p>"That doesn't follow, Mr. Growdy," said Paul, in a low but thrilling
+voice; "if you have set your mind on using that hundred dollars to do a
+good work, perhaps I might give you a hint where it would fit in mighty
+well, and make your heart feel warm."</p>
+
+<p>"Hey! wot's that, Paul? I don't understand," exclaimed the man.</p>
+
+<p>"Down just beyond the outskirts of Stanhope there lives a poor widow
+woman who, I'm told, is in danger of being put out of her home any day
+now because she has been sick and unable to work so as to pay her rent.
+If you went to her right now, Mr. Growdy, and put that wad of money in
+her hand, I'm sure you'd never regret it, sir; and every boy here would
+thank you just as much as if you paid for his uniform. Isn't that so,
+fellows?"</p>
+
+<p>A chorus of shouts testified to the fact that Paul had hit upon a popular
+idea for turning the sudden generosity of the hitherto miserly old farmer
+to account.</p>
+
+<p>"Who is the woman?" asked Peleg Growdy uneasily.</p>
+
+<p>"Mrs. Jenks, who has three little children to support. Her husband was
+killed in that blast some years ago, and she never recovered a cent from
+the mining company, for they burst like a bubble," returned Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"By gum! wot d'ye know about that, now? I reckons as how she lives in one
+o' my own cottages, which the real estate man, Stebbins, takes keer of
+fur me. He was tellin' me about some tenant he'd have to put out; but I
+never noticed more'n that the name was Jenks."</p>
+
+<p>"But now?" ventured Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"It won't be did! No, sir, not by a jugful. I got my team outside, an'
+I'm goin' straight over to see the widder. I knowed her husband onct
+too, an' I'm some 'shamed thet I didn't look her up afore," and Peleg
+started for the door.</p>
+
+<p>"Hold on, Mr. Growdy!" called Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Hey! wot's doin' now, boys?" demanded the old man, turning to grin again
+at his new host of young friends.</p>
+
+<p>"You oughtn't to leave here, sir, without giving every boy scout the
+privilege of shaking hands with you. I'm sure I speak for each fellow
+when I ask that favor," returned Paul, stepping forward.</p>
+
+<p>Peleg was agreeable, though he blushed like a schoolboy as the scouts,
+forming in line, walked past him, each seizing his horny hand eagerly,
+and doing his best to make the old farmer wince with the warmth of his
+squeeze.</p>
+
+<p>They gave him a parting cheer as he passed out, and the old fellow tried
+to return the military salute to the best of his ability.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, what do you think of that?" asked Nuthin', when they were once
+more gathered around their leader for the purpose of further discussion.</p>
+
+<p>"The finest thing that could possibly have happened. We had our frolic;
+and see what it hatched. After this Peleg Growdy will never be the same
+grumpy man he was in the past. No boy need longer hesitate to call out to
+him on the street; for Peleg, I take it, has seen a great light, eh,
+Jack?" and Paul slapped his chum heartily on the shoulder as he spoke.</p>
+
+<p>"My idea exactly," replied his chum, quickly. "And do you know it made me
+feel bad the way he spoke of Mandy and the kids. Some of you fellows may
+not know that he lost his wife and children in a fire that burned his
+house down while he was away. I'm glad we did that job, and you deserve
+the praise, Paul, because it was your own scheme."</p>
+
+<p>"Humbug! every one of you chimed in as soon as it was mentioned, and so
+you're entitled to as much praise as I am. But about those uniforms,
+boys&mdash;hadn't the scout tailor better get to work, going over his
+measurements again? We want the suits to fit all right, you know."</p>
+
+<p>And in this way did Paul direct the attention of his comrades in another
+quarter, because it was really unpleasant for him to be placed on a
+pedestal, as though he were different from the rest of them.</p>
+
+<p>Amid much laughter and joking the measuring went on. Wallace Carberry
+wielded the tape-line, and Bobolink put down the figures, being closely
+patched so that no errors could possibly creep in.</p>
+
+<p>So engrossed were they in this interesting business, that no one paid the
+least attention to their surroundings.</p>
+
+<p>And when a heavy shutter was slowly closed over the one large window of
+the tobacco barn, the fact went unnoticed.</p>
+
+<p>In fact the meeting was about ready to disband, and one of the boys
+started for the door to be in advance of his friends, when he made a
+discovery.</p>
+
+<p>"Who locked this door, fellows?" he called, as he tried in vain to budge
+the barrier.</p>
+
+<p>Of course this drew the attention of all the rest, and a rush was made
+for the place of exit. One by one the boys tried to push the door open,
+but even the stoutest of them failed to accomplish it.</p>
+
+<p>"Who was the last one in?" demanded Bobolink, furiously, as he retired,
+worsted from the encounter, to allow another a chance at the door.</p>
+
+<p>"Old Peleg Growdy, to be sure; and the door wasn't fastened then. D'ye
+suppose he did anything to it when he went out?" asked William, as he
+tried to assist Jud, now straining and pushing in a useless endeavor to
+move the heavy door.</p>
+
+<p>"That's nonsense," said Paul, as he pointed to the fact that the door
+could not be locked, since it gave an inch or so each time the boys
+pushed.</p>
+
+<p>"Ginger! it's got something braced against it outside, that's what!"
+announced another fellow.</p>
+
+<p>"As sure as you're born it has!" echoed Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>All doubt was dissipated just then, for a series of loud and derisive
+shouts in boyish treble welled up from outside.</p>
+
+<p>"Shucks!" grunted Bobolink, in sheer disgust; "we've gone and let the
+Slavin fellers have another crack at us. A nice lot of scouts we look
+like, not to keep sentries on duty when we have a secret meeting. And now
+they've got us cooped up here like a lot of old hens! Shucks! I say
+again!"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, that's no reason we have to stay cooped up, is it?" demanded Jack,
+as he turned to hunt around for some object which could be used for a
+battering ram so as to force the barricaded door of the barn.</p>
+
+<p>"T-t-try the b-b-big wagon doors, fellows!" whooped Bluff.</p>
+
+<p>They did, but with no more success than had attended their puny efforts
+against the smaller exit. Those who had been at work while they talked
+must have done a good job, for the big doors were utterly immovable.</p>
+
+<p>"Do we have to stay in here until morning?" wailed Andy Flinn, in mock
+despair.</p>
+
+<p>"Not much, if I have to climb up to the roof, and knock a plank off. Say,
+those fellows must have been spying out here when I met them this
+morning," said Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"Listen now, what d'ye suppose they're doing?" demanded Nuthin'.</p>
+
+<p>All remained in an attitude of expectancy, and could hear strange sounds
+that seemed to come from under the boards forming the floor of the barn;
+which building had not always been used for drying tobacco alone.</p>
+
+<p>"Now what d'ye suppose the sillies are poking poles under there, for?"
+ejaculated William; "and just when I was going to propose that we pull up
+a board, and crawl through the hole."</p>
+
+<p>"Whew! what's this mean? Say, fellows, if that don't make me think of a
+blessed old skunk I don't know the odor when I meet it!" and Wallace drew
+back as he was about to get down on his hands and knees to investigate
+the meaning of the odd sounds under the barn flooring.</p>
+
+<p>Others got it quickly, and various cries arose, as the boys began to hold
+their noses, and look around at each other.</p>
+
+<p>"It'll smother us, fellows, that's what!" gasped William, quite pale by
+now; for the odor which a skunk leaves in its wake affects some persons
+powerfully, though others hardly mind it at all.</p>
+
+<p>"I know!" Bluff managed to gasp, with a great effort; "there's a
+f-f-family of s-s-skunks have their h-h-home under here. I've seen 'em,
+b-b-but I never b-b-bothered the b-b-beauties. Oh! ain't it j-j-just
+awful, f-f-fellows?"</p>
+
+<p>It certainly was.</p>
+
+<p>Stirred up by the poles wielded by Ted Slavin and his cronies, who must
+have discovered the presence of the polecats when visiting the barn that
+morning, and laid their plans accordingly, the little animals were using
+the only means of defence against an enemy granted them by Nature.</p>
+
+<p>William actually keeled over, and his brother had to drag him to the
+further end of the barn so that he might not get the full benefit of the
+overpowering scent.</p>
+
+<p>"Something's just <i>got</i> to be done!" cried Jack, himself not feeling any
+too well under the infliction.</p>
+
+<p>"Here, help me lift this old beam, boys. We can make a battering ram out
+of it, and burst a board off somehow. Never mind the damages; they can be
+repaired easy enough. Two more get hold. Now, swing around this way. I
+think the weakest place is in the rear. Keep back, the rest of you. Here
+goes!"</p>
+
+<p>Five others had been only too willing to lend a hand when Paul called for
+volunteers. The beam that had been lying against the further wall was
+good and heavy; but that made it all the better as an engine for ramming
+a hole through the boarded side of the barn.</p>
+
+<p>Amid the cheers of the scouts the novel battering ram was carried forward
+with a will, and on the run. Some of the boys held up lanterns so that
+those who were in the line of attack could see just where to strike. Even
+poor overcome William managed to raise his head, and feebly wave a hand
+of encouragement.</p>
+
+<p>The beam struck with tremendous force, and nothing in the way of a plain
+ordinary boarding could withstand the impetus with which it was driven
+forward.</p>
+
+<p>"Whoop!" yelled the scouts, as a big aperture appeared in the side of the
+barn, and the route to liberty lay before them.</p>
+
+<p>They were not slow to avail themselves of the privilege either, but
+hastened to scramble through the gap, carrying the lanterns with them.
+William managed to get up enough steam to crawl outside, where he could
+breath air that was not fetid, and filled with overpowering odors.</p>
+
+<p>Only Bluff looked back half regretfully at the haven of refuge they had
+just quitted. For he was wondering how his father could ever manage to
+efface that scent so that the tobacco, soon to be harvested, might be
+hung up in that barn without detracting from its marketable value.</p>
+
+<p>And once out of the trap the Boy Scouts began to chase around, with
+vengeance in their eyes; but as on previous occasions the wary enemy,
+after accomplishing their mischief, had been wise enough to slink away.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII"></a>CHAPTER XII</h2>
+
+<h3>THE RIVAL TROOPS</h3>
+
+
+<p>"How far do we have to go in this new plan of forgiving the enemy, Paul?"
+asked William, who had by now fully recovered from his recent weakness,
+and was burning with zeal to avenge himself upon their persecutors.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, this thing has got to have a limit!" declared Jud Elderkin, as he
+glared around at the moonlit scene, and no doubt imagined their rivals
+hiding near by, where they could laugh at the disturbed group.</p>
+
+<p>Paul knew boy nature too well to stretch their patience beyond the
+breaking point. He was astonished that such fire-eaters as Bluff,
+William, and several more, could restrain themselves even as well as they
+had.</p>
+
+<p>To keep them in hand the reins must be loosened a little; but only to
+enable him to get a better hold later on.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, there's no positive rule, fellows; and so far as I can see I
+believe the limit has already been passed, with us," he said, pleasantly.</p>
+
+<p>"Hurrah! that's the kind of talk!" cried the inflammable Twin.</p>
+
+<p>"Then you give us permission to pitch in, and whale the whole bunch the
+next time they play one of their measly old tricks on us? Is that so,
+Paul?" demanded Jud.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I only h-h-hope so!" came from Bluff.</p>
+
+<p>"Wait till the time comes, and perhaps I'll help you give them a
+much-needed lesson. We don't want to play the worm part, always,"
+remarked Paul; "and now, boys, let's head for home."</p>
+
+<p>"Ta-ta, sweet little meeting-house on the edge of the woods; I'll carry
+fond memories of you as long as this suit of clothes lasts, I guess,"
+said William, waving his hand mockingly backward toward the deserted
+barn.</p>
+
+<p>"Watch out for some of those Slavin fellows on the road. They may bombard
+us from the woods with rocks!" warned Joe Clausin.</p>
+
+<p>"Just let 'em try, that's all. We'll chase the stone thrower to a
+standstill, and then he'll be sorry he wandered away from his happy home
+this night!" Bobolink declared, ferociously.</p>
+
+<p>So they walked along in detached groups, many eyes were on the alert, and
+listening ears bent to catch some sign of a lurking foe.</p>
+
+<p>Once or twice they heard signals being exchanged deep in the woods,
+evidently by the scattered cohorts of Ted; but while valiant, the members
+of the Fox Patrols were wise and prudent as well, copying the cautious
+attributes of the wary animal after which their new organization had been
+named.</p>
+
+<p>They declined to explore the dense forest, seeking a foe that might only
+be bent on luring them along, until ready to pounce on them in a body, to
+make them prisoners of war.</p>
+
+<p>And so finally the march came to an end, with all hands satisfied that
+the last meeting of the little host of new scouts had been attended by
+several of the most exciting circumstances that ever befell the boys of
+Stanhope.</p>
+
+<p>Paul and his chum walked on together, until reaching the first home they
+said good night. But neither again brought up that subject which had been
+worrying Jack Stormways for so long a time.</p>
+
+<p>If Paul had conceived any sort of an idea in connection with the strange
+disappearance of the old coins, he kept it to himself.</p>
+
+<p>Once, however, on the way home after leaving Jack, he stopped to clap his
+hand down vigorously on his knee, and whispered to himself:</p>
+
+<p>"Now, I wonder if that could possibly be so?"</p>
+
+<p>But no matter what idea had struck him, further words didn't come to tell
+whether his thoughts were connected with Jack's personal trouble; or on
+the other hand if the annoying enmity of Ted Slavin, Ward Kenwood, and
+their would-be scout troop, was still on his mind.</p>
+
+<p>Nevertheless, as Paul passed up to the front door of his home, and
+stopped a minute to look up at the bright moon sailing across the eastern
+heavens, he considered that he had good reason to feel more than
+satisfied with the magnificent results already attending the new methods
+of the Boy Scouts.</p>
+
+<p>On the following day he sent off the letter containing a check which his
+father gave him in place of the money, so that it might not be lost.</p>
+
+<p>Then followed a period of anxious waiting, during which many of the
+members of the Stanhope Troop No. 1 felt touches of envy at sight of
+their rivals parading the streets, decked out in the full regalia of
+Scouts, and carrying themselves with the proudest of airs.</p>
+
+<p>They knew that Ted and Ward were busily engaged in drilling their
+followers in many of the devices prominently mentioned in the manual
+book. For that matter, though, it did not require regulation suits of
+khaki to excel in those same things; and so the Foxes also studied and
+experimented, and burned candles at night in the endeavor to learn all
+that was possible of those various accomplishments.</p>
+
+<p>There was a great difference in the boys of the town.</p>
+
+<p>Few who were of the proper age but who belonged to one or the other of
+the troops; and people were beginning to notice how much more manly they
+carried themselves, and how anxious they seemed now to get credit marks
+at home.</p>
+
+<p>Parents upon meeting never failed to talk about this wonderful change,
+and express hopes that it would last.</p>
+
+<p>"The best thing that ever happened, barring none, I think," was what the
+old minister declared, at a meeting of the Women's Club; "and it deserves
+to be encouraged. Why, you ladies should take advantage of this wave of
+reform, to get these lads interested in keeping the streets of the town
+clean. Give me fifty willing workers among the boys, and I warrant you
+there will never be a stray piece of paper blowing around. They'll
+provide receptacles for trash, and see that everybody uses them."</p>
+
+<p>And so it went around, and everybody seemed delighted at the innovation.
+Only a few skeptical old fogies shook their heads, and declared that it
+was too good to last, and that they about expected to see the boys of
+Stanhope transplanted to the heavens in a body presently, since their
+wings must be sprouting.</p>
+
+<p>About this time it came to the ears of Paul that the banner which the
+peace-loving Quaker, Mr. Westervelt, had offered for the most proficient
+troop of scouts along the Bushkill, had been placed on exhibition in the
+window of a jewelry store over in the manufacturing town of Manchester.</p>
+
+<p>He and Jack wheeled over that very day to inspect the coveted trophy.
+When they saw what a beauty it was, their hearts thrilled with new
+aspirations.</p>
+
+<p>"Worth fighting hard for, eh, Paul?" observed Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"I should say, yes," replied the other, delight written in big letters on
+his face, pressed so close to the glass; "and I reckon it would do our
+fellows lots of good just to run down here to look at that dandy banner.
+I must tell them all about it, and have them see it for themselves."</p>
+
+<p>"A bully good idea. You know how to get a fellow to put his best licks
+into any job he undertakes," declared his chum, admiringly.</p>
+
+<p>"Humbug!" scornfully replied Paul; "why, it's as easy as falling off a
+log. Don't you feel more like straining every nerve in the effort to win
+that prize, after seeing how handsome it is? Well, I just try to believe
+every fellow is more or less like I am. That's the whole secret. Yes,
+Stanhope must work hard to catch up with the other fellows."</p>
+
+<p>There were several boys standing around, also gaping at the fine snowy
+banner, upon which as the card under it, went on to state, was to be
+embroidered with colored silk the totem of the leading patrol of the
+successful troop.</p>
+
+<p>These fellows could not help knowing who the strangers in town were; and
+it was also easy for them to guess what had brought Paul and Jack down
+there. More than a few times had they seen these Stanhope boys competing
+on the athletic field, either in baseball, or football. And of course it
+was always good form for Manchester lads to "josh" any would-be rivals.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," said one of the natives, with a grin, "up in that corner is where
+the eagle is going to be painted. And every time we go on a hike we'll
+carry that banner at the head of the procession."</p>
+
+<p>"They say," remarked another, with pretended innocence, "that poor old
+Stanhope is getting up a troop, and even hopes to have a try for this
+beauty. Now, what do you think about the nerve of that, fellows?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! well, the more the merrier," came from a third, whom Paul knew to be
+the scout leader of the "Eagles" in person, "and after all, we don't mind
+showing these tenderfeet scouts how to do stunts. None of us want to be
+hogs, boys. There's room enough for all, even if some do have to eat
+the husks."</p>
+
+<p>Paul had to laugh out loud at this.</p>
+
+<p>"Say, you're on to us, all right, Manchester," he said, turning around.
+"Yes, we've come down here just to take a peep at this great prize. Of
+course we'd like mighty well to say we meant to win it; but we're too
+modest for that. The most we admit is that we mean to make a try for it.
+Of course we haven't got much show against two such veteran troops as
+Manchester and Aldine; but we want to get all the fun out of the game we
+can. And you won't begrudge us that, Claypool?"</p>
+
+<p>"Sure we won't, Morrison," returned the other, frankly, thrusting out
+his hand; "as I said before, the more in it the better. It will make our
+victory look bigger."</p>
+
+<p>"Glad to see you're so dead sure of winning out," laughed Paul; "whenever
+the Stanhope boys go into anything they always work harder if they have
+big odds against them. But all the same that's a bully good banner, and
+no matter whether it has an eagle, the head of a beaver, or that of a
+fox worked on it in colored silk, it's going to be something we'll all
+be proud of as Boy Scouts."</p>
+
+<p>"That's well put, Morrison; though you might just as well get it out of
+your head now as later that the Manchester fellows will ever let any
+crowd come in here and take that dandy flag away. Why, our fellows know
+ten times as much about scout tactics as your greenhorns do now."</p>
+
+<p>Claypole did not mean to be overbearing; when he said this he really
+believed it to be an actual fact.</p>
+
+<p>"That's very true," said Paul, quietly, as he and his chum prepared to
+mount their wheels for the return journey; "but Thanksgiving is still
+more than two months off; and Claypole, I give you my word, we've got
+some of the smartest tenderfeet in the Stanhope troop you ever heard
+of. Ta-ta, boys!"</p>
+
+<p>Of course, when Paul and Jack told what they had seen, every fellow
+wanted to make the run over to Manchester to look for himself. And,
+just as Paul had expected, they came back home more than ever enthused
+with the hope and prospect of winning that royal banner for the Stanhope
+troop.</p>
+
+<p>At the next meeting the talk was all about the prize, and a vote was even
+taken to ascertain to whom the honor of being the banner bearer might
+fall, in case the victory was awarded to Stanhope. Wallace Carberry
+turned out to be the lucky standard bearer.</p>
+
+<p>All of which was just what clever Paul wanted. He had infused a new
+stimulant into the veins of his comrades. And at their next outdoor
+rally, when various contests were undertaken to discover who showed the
+most skill, he found that the very atmosphere seemed to be surcharged
+with electricity; for the boys labored to excel as they had never done
+before; but it was because each one believed that upon his shoulders
+alone devolved the duty of bringing that beautiful prize to Stanhope.</p>
+
+<p>Four days later the expected suits arrived, much sooner than even the
+most sanguine had anticipated.</p>
+
+<p>Then there <i>was</i> a time.</p>
+
+<p>The usually quiet and peaceful streets of the town were fairly filled
+with khaki-clad warriors, strutting up and down, exchanging military
+salutes, and arousing the admiration of all the girls, who came forth
+to gaze and applaud.</p>
+
+<p>It was a great day for Stanhope. A stranger visiting there for the first
+time might think some military academy must have taken up fall quarters
+near by, and granted full liberty to its uniformed hosts.</p>
+
+<p>If there were those who had been hesitating about joining either of the
+troops, a decision must certainly follow the first glimpse of those
+gallant uniforms.</p>
+
+<p>That night many a lad ate supper as an honored guest at his father's
+table; for surely the wearer of a uniform must be entitled to unusual
+privileges.</p>
+
+<p>Of course the word had gone around for a meeting of the Stanhope No. 1.
+But it was not to be held at the Shipley barn&mdash;oh! no, those boys had
+had "quite a sufficiency," as Bobolink said, of their former quarters;
+and Bluff admitted that his father would not dare use the building again
+that year for his tobacco crop.</p>
+
+<p>Jason Carberry, father of the twins, had asked as a favor that they make
+use of his big smithy; and since the night air was cool, Paul had
+accepted this generous proposition of the blacksmith on the spot.</p>
+
+<p>So that was where they came together, a uniformed organization, at last.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII"></a>CHAPTER XIII</h2>
+
+<h3>"FIRE!"</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Man the bellows, somebody."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, stir up the fire in that forge, William. It's the coldest September
+night on record, and that's a fact!" exclaimed Bobolink, as he pushed
+the lively member of the Carberry team toward the smouldering fire left
+by the blacksmith when he gave over his capacious smithy to the Boy
+Scouts for their meeting.</p>
+
+<p>"M-m-my dad s-s-says he once lost his t-t-t-tobacco c-crop in
+S-s-september!" observed Bluff, shaking his head as he pushed toward
+the fire.</p>
+
+<p>The boys had had a fine meeting.</p>
+
+<p>Besides the twenty-two in their new uniforms, four new recruits had been
+present, to drink in with eager ears all that passed, and sigh for the
+day to come when they too might shine forth in such resplendant suits.</p>
+
+<p>Already was there much rivalry shown in the many competitions which the
+young scout leaders had instituted. There was a class on aviation,
+another that had taken up the mysteries of camping with all its
+fascinating details; a third chose photography as the most entrancing
+subject, and exhibited many pictures that were to be entered in the great
+contest of the county for the banner.</p>
+
+<p>Then several boys had doubled, for surely the knowledge of cookery went
+hand in hand with that of camping; while a good stalker could at the same
+time enter for a merit badge in the path-finding line.</p>
+
+<p>Besides, though the season was late for swimming, several fellows who
+knew just what their best accomplishment might be, had qualified to
+enter this class.</p>
+
+<p>On the whole the meeting had been a most interesting one. Every scout
+was burning with enthusiasm, and many were the resolutions that Stanhope
+must have what Bobolink called a "show-in," with regard to that coveted
+banner, which was to fall to the leading patrol of the county.</p>
+
+<p>They were now almost ready to "break camp" for the evening, and before
+doing so indulged in a little general talk. Many had ideas which they
+wished to advance, in order to discover what the attitude of their
+comrades might be.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Chairman," said Wallace Carberry, when he found a little lull in the
+buzz of conversation, "I have a proposition I'd like to put before the
+meeting before we disband."</p>
+
+<p>"Hear! hear!" shouted several of the boys, notably those who had been
+seen in close confab with Wallace, and hence probably in touch with his
+scheme.</p>
+
+<p>"All right, Number Seven; let's hear what it is," replied Paul, readily.</p>
+
+<p>Every member of each patrol had a number. These began with the scout
+leader, who of course had to take the "initial sack," as Bobolink, still
+baseball wild, put it. Jack, as his assistant in control, came as Number
+Two; Bobolink next; Bluff captured Four as his distinguishing feature;
+Nuthin' being Five, and the twins the next pair, for it would never do to
+separate William and Wallace, while Tom Betts was Eighth and last.</p>
+
+<p>"If the gentlemen present will give me the floor, with the privilege of
+three minutes in which to explain what I have in mind, I will be glad to
+comply."</p>
+
+<p>Wallace was very precise in his way of putting things. This did not
+happen only when in school, or as he stood up to address a meeting of
+his chums. He could not unbend his dignity even under the most trivial
+conditions.</p>
+
+<p>William was just the reverse; and so full of frolic and fun that the boys
+always declared the pair to be unequally matched, since in disposition
+they were exact opposites.</p>
+
+<p>And yet under it all there was the same abiding affection that generally
+may be found between twins.</p>
+
+<p>"Hear! hear!" shouted the boys once more.</p>
+
+<p>"Let's have it, Wallace, old sport. It's bound to be a jim-dandy idea!"
+declared a loud voice that seemed to spring from the ceiling; but no one
+was deceived, for they knew only too well how Bobolink could throw his
+voice pretty much where he pleased.</p>
+
+<p>"Silence!"</p>
+
+<p>When Paul, who in the absence of a regular scout master, occupied the
+chair, uttered this one word every sound ceased; and after that there was
+no excuse for Wallace to hesitate longer.</p>
+
+<p>"Some of us have been talking it over, Mr. Chairman, and we would
+respectfully request that you name an early date when we can go out into
+the woods for several tests of skill. There is much keen rivalry among a
+number of us already, which can only be settled by an open trial. First
+of all there is the interesting water-boiling test of woodmanship. We
+want to know who is the leading light in that class so we may push him
+forward to enter the general competition with other Boy Scout troops. Am
+I understood, Mr. Chairman?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think you have made your meaning plain, and the one particular
+competition you mention happens to be the most interesting of all,"
+replied Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Then may we hope that you will name an early day for the trial to come
+off? Unfortunately school begins shortly now, and outside of Saturdays
+and holidays the several Fox patrols may not have much chance to practice
+before the grand trial comes off. Make it as early as possible, Mr.
+Chairman."</p>
+
+<p>"How would to-morrow do?" asked Paul, only too anxious himself to
+ascertain how the boys would "toe the mark."</p>
+
+<p>Wallace looked at his backers, and there were vigorous nods in answer to
+the question seen upon his face.</p>
+
+<p>"It seems to be the unanimous consensus of opinion, Mr. Chairman, that
+to-morrow would suit first rate. Please give us the hour for assembling,
+and you can depend on our being on deck," Wallace remarked.</p>
+
+<p>"Two o'clock ought to answer. That will give us plenty of time to try out
+a lot of stunts I shall arrange for."</p>
+
+<p>"Where shall we meet?" asked Jud Elderkin.</p>
+
+<p>"H-h-how about our b-b-barn, fellows?" queried Bluff, grinning.</p>
+
+<p>There was an instantaneous howl of derision, and every right hand went up
+so that the thumb and forefinger might compress a nose.</p>
+
+<p>"Another year might do, Bluff!" called one.</p>
+
+<p>"What isn't fit for storing tobacco can't be a proper meeting place for
+respectable Boy Scouts!" declared another, energetically.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! he's only bluffing, fellows; don't mind him!"</p>
+
+<p>"In fancy I can smell it now," sang another, mockingly.</p>
+
+<p>"We'll meet just outside this very blacksmith shop, and at two sharp,"
+declared the chairman, decisively; "and any scout who is tardy will
+be given one or more bad marks that he must carry as a load in the
+competition. Punctuality is a leading trait in Stanhope Troop No. 1,
+you understand. Any other proposition?"</p>
+
+<p>The boys began to talk among themselves, and for a short time there was
+a constant buzz that sounded like a big hive of bees.</p>
+
+<p>Jack found himself in contact with Paul while this was going on. He had
+been doing his duty to the best of his ability as he understood it; and
+while the meeting was in progress had proven conclusively that he had a
+thorough knowledge of the many things a full fledged scout must know.</p>
+
+<p>Jack meant to graduate from the tenderfoot class in the shortest possible
+space of time. Any scout may do this by being diligent in the pursuit of
+various lines of woodcraft.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," said Jack, as he pushed alongside his chum, "this has been a
+dandy meeting, all right. And there are four new fellows knocking at the
+door; with perhaps more to follow, when Stanhope learns what great times
+we have."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and I guess we'll need new recruits right along. You know that some
+of the boys will fall by the wayside soon after the novelty has worn
+off," remarked wise Paul, who delighted in studying human nature as he
+saw it around him.</p>
+
+<p>"Listen! fellows! The fire alarm!" shouted Joe Clausin, just at that
+instant.</p>
+
+<p>Every voice was hushed.</p>
+
+<p>Clear upon the night air rang out the sound of a tocsin&mdash;the stroke of a
+hammer upon a steel rim from a locomotive wheel, and which was hung aloft
+in the only firehouse in Stanhope.</p>
+
+<p>It was a thrilling sound at any time, and especially to a company of
+boys newly enlisted in the great cause of humanity&mdash;of lending a hand
+to neighbors who might be in trouble. So after several more clear,
+resounding strokes had pealed forth, calling the volunteer department
+out to fight the fire demon, one scout started wildly for the double
+doors of the smithy.</p>
+
+<p>He was immediately followed by others, and in almost the twinkling of an
+eye the Carberry blacksmith shop was emptied of its late noisy crowd.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV"></a>CHAPTER XIV</h2>
+
+<h3>JACK'S CHANCE</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Wow! look at that, will you?"</p>
+
+<p>"It's a barn most likely!"</p>
+
+<p>"Don't you believe it. I can see the roof of the house! Say, I believe it
+must be that old Bradley place! Come along, fellows!"</p>
+
+<p>"There are the firemen on the run! They'll have old Rescue No. 1 on the
+jump in a jiffy. Hey, fellers, let's get busy, and pull the hose cart for
+'em!"</p>
+
+<p>"Bully idea. Lead the way, Paul! It's up to you to show us how!"</p>
+
+<p>With these and many more cries the Boy Scouts bore down on the building
+that sheltered the lone fire department of the town. This consisted of
+a cast-off engine in good repair which had been purchased from some big
+city, where they were installing an auto in place of horse power for
+propelling their machines; and a hose reel, the latter to be drawn by
+a line of men.</p>
+
+<p>Of course the assembling firemen were only too glad of the offered aid.
+To have a score of husky boys appear so readily on the scene, ready for
+business, was in the line of a "snap."</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly, while some of the men got the horses hitched to the engine,
+and others started the fire going, the hose cart was rushed out, and its
+long rope eagerly seized by the waiting boys.</p>
+
+<p>Paul was at the end of the line, for a scout leader must live up to his
+reputation as a general, no matter what the emergency.</p>
+
+<p>"Pull!" went forth the cry, and immediately the hose reel started off in
+the direction where a flash of fiery red announced that the excitement
+was centred.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing could please such an energetic lot of lads more than a chance to
+make themselves useful in this way. They pulled with a will, and passed
+along the road leading out of the town, on a wild run.</p>
+
+<p>The one who had declared that it was the old Bradley house that was on
+fire must have had the situation well in mind. Perhaps he lived in that
+neighborhood, and was better able to judge than the balance of the boys.
+At any rate all of them had by now made sure of the fact.</p>
+
+<p>Paul remembered that a family, in which were quite a number of children,
+had lately come to town, and taken the big ramshackle building.</p>
+
+<p>The thought gave him a thrill, and inwardly he found himself hoping that
+none of them might be caught in that fire-trap.</p>
+
+<p>"There comes the old machine!" shouted the fellow who, not being able to
+get a grip on the rope by which the hose wagon was drawn, trotted in the
+rear, and made out to push.</p>
+
+<p>Yes, they could hear the shouts of the excited fire laddies now, and also
+catch the sound of galloping horses.</p>
+
+<p>Looking over his shoulder, Paul saw a medley of moving lights, evidently
+the lanterns carried by the volunteers. These were doubtless clad in
+their old toggery and fire hats, the foreman with his silver trumpet in
+evidence, without which no respectable fire would think of allowing
+itself to be quenched.</p>
+
+<p>And a rising column of sparks attested to the fact that the fire in the
+engine was in full blast, so that steam would be ready by the time the
+scene of operations was reached.</p>
+
+<p>"One side, boys, and let them pass! Give them plenty of room!" called
+Paul.</p>
+
+<p>He had seen that old engine booming along to a fire on many an occasion,
+and remembered that the driver, Hank Seeris, was inclined to be a
+reckless hand; for as a rule the machine was wobbling from side to
+side, and threatening to overturn at any minute.</p>
+
+<p>Up to this date that catastrophe had never happened; but Paul remembered
+the old saying that "a pitcher may go to the well once too often;" and he
+had fears.</p>
+
+<p>It proved that they were well grounded too, after the hose reed had
+safely negotiated the last bend in the road, and the burning dwelling was
+in plain sight.</p>
+
+<p>"Look at them coming, full tilt! They will be over at the turn!" shrieked
+Bobolink, who, being near the tail end of the double line could observe
+what was taking place without hindrance.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately there arose a chorus of loud shouts, as of warning. But
+apparently Hank Seeris must have been indulging in more liquor than was
+good for him; or else he happened to be in an unusually reckless state.</p>
+
+<p>"They're going over!" howled Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"Smash!"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! there goes our only engine to the scrap heap!" exclaimed Jud
+Elderkin, in dismay; for his father happened to be the foreman, and it
+looked just then as though the gallant fireman might be without a job.</p>
+
+<p>Paul ran back, as did most of the boys, thinking that something terrible
+must have happened.</p>
+
+<p>The plunging horses had been pulled down, and a man was already sitting
+on the head of each to keep them from kicking further. There are
+generally some wise persons present in such a calamity, who know just
+what ought to be done.</p>
+
+<p>Willing hands were already unhitching the horses, so that they could be
+taken out of the way, and the ditched engine upraised.</p>
+
+<p>"Where's Hank, the driver! Is he hurt?" asked some one; and Paul
+recognized the old minister, who must have been on the way home from
+visiting when the alarm burst out, and hence he had accompanied the fire
+fighters, eager to lend a hand at the rescue work.</p>
+
+<p>"Here he is, and just comin' to, after being knocked senseless. Hank
+ain't hurted, I reckon," answered a citizen who had run with the machine.</p>
+
+<p>"How about the engine&mdash;is she much damaged?" asked the foreman, as men
+set about raising the heavy Rescue No. 1.</p>
+
+<p>"Out of business for this trip, Elderkin. She'll never work again till
+she's gone down to the city for repairs," came the answer.</p>
+
+<p>A groan of dismay went up.</p>
+
+<p>"That settles the fate of the old Bradley house, then," declared many, as
+they saw the flames and smoke apparently increasing.</p>
+
+<p>Everybody was now anxious to get on the scene, and the engine was left in
+charge of a watcher, while the crowd rushed along, exchanging views of
+the accident, and the chances of saving the building by means of a bucket
+brigade.</p>
+
+<p>The foreman proved himself to be the right man in the right place. He
+instantly organized a double line of men and boys, leading from the creek
+near by, up to the house that was burning.</p>
+
+<p>Every imaginable species of bucket and tin pail was pressed into use. Men
+and boys invaded the kitchen and captured all sorts of utensils, from
+milkpans to butter firkins.</p>
+
+<p>These were put into use, and passed along as rapidly as those at the
+creek end could plunge them in, and fill them with water.</p>
+
+<p>At the other terminus the foreman and his assistants took the water
+pails, and dashed the contents here and there as opportunity arose.</p>
+
+<p>The Boy Scouts were nearly all somewhere in the line, and working
+valorously. For the time being they utterly forgot they were dressed in
+their new suits of khaki, and that the pails slopped over continuously,
+soon soaking them to the skin.</p>
+
+<p>Cheered on by the appeals of their leader they never flinched. It was the
+first chance Paul had of seeing how his enlisted followers could forget
+self, and rise grandly to an occasion.</p>
+
+<p>When any one showed signs of tiring he was quickly crowded out of the
+line by another eager willing worker. Indeed, there seemed to be three
+applicants for each job; and had there been more buckets several lines
+might have been formed to make use of that accommodating creek.</p>
+
+<p>Jack, after a little, found himself pushed aside by another scout, who
+wanted to exercise his muscles, and could wait no longer.</p>
+
+<p>Seeing a group around some children, and hearing sudden cries from a
+woman, Jack hurried across the lawn. Somehow he seemed to fear that
+new trouble had broken out; and when he saw a half-clad figure wringing
+her hands, and shrieking, he realized that his suspicions were going to
+prove true.</p>
+
+<p>"What is it?" he asked, of another scout, coming away from the group.</p>
+
+<p>"Her baby. She says it is in the house!" replied the boy, whose face was
+white with the horror of it all.</p>
+
+<p>"What?" cried Jack; "did she forget her own baby, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"She thought her husband had it. He's a sick man too. See, that's him
+they are holding back there. He wants to go in for the baby, and they
+won't let him. Oh! Jack, I'd like to do it, but I'm afraid of fire. I
+just dassent!" sobbed the boy.</p>
+
+<p>Jack waited to hear no more. His blood seemed to be on fire, and his
+teeth came together with a click.</p>
+
+<p>Another moment and he was in the group, eagerly plying the almost
+distracted mother with questions as to which room her baby had been in.
+Fortunately Jack had once known a boy living in the old Bradley mansion;
+so that the interior of the house was not strange to him.</p>
+
+<p>"Our bedroom&mdash;it is the corner one where the tower stands. The one that
+has the alcove!" the lady managed to cry, as she caught his arm, and
+looked, oh, so pleadingly, in his boyish, determined face.</p>
+
+<p>After that Jack would have risked anything in the attempt to save that
+innocent little one. He rushed off without saying a word. Several put
+out a hand to stop him, under the belief that it was useless, since that
+portion of the building seemed to be a mass of flames by now. But Jack
+dodged them just as he did when running with the ball on the football
+field.</p>
+
+<p>When he dashed into the house, disappearing in the volume of smoke that
+poured from the open doorway, a groan went up from the great crowd; for
+they doubted as to whether he would ever be seen alive again.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV"></a>CHAPTER XV</h2>
+
+<h3>THE HONOR BRAND</h3>
+
+
+<p>"He's gone!"</p>
+
+<p>"Who was that boy?" called the foreman of the fire company, as he came
+running up, waving his speaking trumpet.</p>
+
+<p>"Jack Stormways, the lumber man's boy!" some one answered.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, he's a good one, all right; but I'm sorry for his mother!" said
+the experienced fire-fighter, as he looked anxiously at the flames
+pouring out from several windows directly under the room next the tower.</p>
+
+<p>Paul had dropped out of the line. He could not pass another bucket after
+seeing the chum he loved so well plunge into the doomed building. From
+right and left he heard many things spoken, and presently understood what
+it was induced Jack to attempt what seemed so like a foolhardy thing.</p>
+
+<p>So it would have been, had the object of Jack's attempt been the securing
+of valuables, no matter what the amount. But a human life counts for
+more than earthly riches; and a brave soul never stops to consider the
+risk when a fellow being is in peril of a terrible fate.</p>
+
+<p>Jack found himself in the midst of dense smoke as soon as he plunged
+across the doorsill. He had foreseen this, and with a wisdom beyond his
+years made simple preparations to combat the evil.</p>
+
+<p>On the way to the door he passed close by one who carried a bucket
+of water, and some happy inspiration caused him to snatch out his
+handkerchief and dip it into the cool liquid, not wringing it out to
+any extent.</p>
+
+<p>This he clapped over his nose, so that in breathing the wet cloth would
+keep much of the suffocating vapor from being drawn into his lungs.</p>
+
+<p>His eyes began to smart furiously. By the time he was half way up the
+stairs he could not see a thing around him save murky clouds of smoke,
+lighted by the tongues of flame that darted like serpents out of many
+places.</p>
+
+<p>He staggered up still further, and fell on the landing. But gaining his
+feet again he pushed on, still heading in the right direction. Only for
+the knowledge he possessed regarding the interior of the building, Jack
+would have lost his bearings then and there. The result must have been
+serious indeed.</p>
+
+<p>Along the hall he went. It seemed to grow hotter the further he pushed;
+but even that did not daunt him. Once enlisted in a good cause he must
+go on, no matter what faced him. Had not Paul said words to that effect,
+after telling them what it meant to be a tried and true scout?</p>
+
+<p>And here the opportunity had come to him not half an hour after the
+thrilling words were spoken!</p>
+
+<p>Those outside while still sending the buckets of water along, in the
+effort to save one portion of the large house, were waiting to see what
+came of Jack's attempt at rescue.</p>
+
+<p>"He's lost!" declared one, as the fire broke out in a new place; "see,
+that's the tower burning now, and she said the baby was in the room next
+there."</p>
+
+<p>"Poor old Jack! to think it should be him to go!" groaned Bobolink; "see,
+Paul, there's his father passing the buckets along. He don't even know
+his boy is in the old shack! Oh! my, whatever did he take chances like
+that for?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because he couldn't stand and see that poor mother shrieking for her
+baby. Because he's got the strongest heart of us all! That's why!"
+declared Paul, his voice vibrating with love for the chum he might never
+see alive again.</p>
+
+<p>And Bobolink said to himself:</p>
+
+<p>"By the jumpin' Jehosaphat, I believe Paul would have gone if Jack
+hadn't. He's lookin' at that house now like he wanted to run right in
+and tear it to flinders."</p>
+
+<p>"There he is at the window!" whooped a man's heavy voice.</p>
+
+<p>Instantly every eye ranged along the front of the building, wherever the
+columns of smoke permitted. And many a finger was pointed at the one
+where a waving hat served to draw attention.</p>
+
+<p>"He's shouting something. Keep still, everybody!"</p>
+
+<p>A dead silence immediately ensued. Only the roaring and crackling of the
+hungry flames could be heard, as every ear was strained to catch what
+it was the imperiled boy was saying.</p>
+
+<p>"He's got the baby&mdash;look! he's holding her up!"</p>
+
+<p>A shriek came from the agonized mother, and she fell on her knees with
+clasped hands.</p>
+
+<p>"Listen to what he says!"</p>
+
+<p>"Go to back of house&mdash;get ladder to window there!" called Jack huskily,
+at the top of his voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Hurrah! we understand, old fellow! We'll have you out of that yet!"
+whooped Bobolink, starting on the run around the end of the mansion.</p>
+
+<p>"A ladder&mdash;bring it around, boys! Let's save the brave youngster!" howled
+the tall foreman.</p>
+
+<p>The ladder happened to be up against the building at a point where the
+flames had now burst forth, driving the fire-fighters back. Himself, the
+foreman led in a bold forward rush to capture the required ladder; nor
+was he to be denied, scorning the efforts of the licking tongues of fire
+to daunt him.</p>
+
+<p>Then, with a swarm of followers, he pushed around the corner. Here,
+to be sure, there did seem to be less of smoke and blaze, owing to the
+direction of the night wind.</p>
+
+<p>Now they were placing the ladder. It reached up to a window, and if only
+Jack would show himself all might be well. Seconds were like an eternity
+to those who crowded below, every face upturned, and every eye ranging
+along the side of the house.</p>
+
+<p>The fire was pushing in this direction too, for it suddenly burst out
+of a broken window. From many pairs of lips there burst a groan. Well
+did they know that every second counted against the boy, who was
+doubtless groping his way along halls and through rooms filled with
+that overpowering smoke.</p>
+
+<p>"There he is!"</p>
+
+<p>It was like a sudden electric shock, that cry. The clarion notes of a
+bugle would not have thrilled that vast crowd one half so surely as did
+the appearance of a head at a window on the left.</p>
+
+<p>Jack had been shrewd enough to pick out a room that was further away from
+the devouring flames. A hoarse shout went up at sight of him.</p>
+
+<p>"He's got the baby too!" was the tenor of that victorious cry; and it
+was as though every man and boy and other person present felt a personal
+interest in the success of Jack's daring venture.</p>
+
+<p>The precious baby was saved; yes, he was hugging the bundle to his
+breast; and during a lull in the clamor they plainly heard the lusty
+cries that proceeded from that shawl-wrapped package. Those were
+doubtless the most blessed sounds that ever reached the strained ears
+of the praying mother.</p>
+
+<p>Quickly was the ladder lifted and rushed along the wall of the house
+until it stood beneath the window where Jack had shown himself.</p>
+
+<p>The foreman himself mounted as soon as it was in position. But Jack
+refused to hand over his burden, nor could Mr. Elderkin insist. It was
+only right that the one who had saved the little darling should have the
+pleasure of placing her in the arms of the frantic mother.</p>
+
+<p>But he could and did guide Jack's feet as they sought the rounds of
+the friendly ladder, so that presently the boy, with singed hair, and
+begrimed with smoke, was lifted to the ground.</p>
+
+<p>Hardly had Jack landed than a pair of arms encircled both him and the
+baby; for in that happy moment the mother realized what she owed this
+brave lad; and her heart was brimming over with gratitude.</p>
+
+<p>Such shouts as went up then! Those still coming to the scene must have
+thought the wearers of the fire hats had succeeded in running a line of
+hose into a position where victory was assured.</p>
+
+<p>Again the bucket brigade got busy, working with renewed zeal, though
+but little hope of saving any portion of the big building now remained.
+But every one was roused up to fever pitch by the excitement of the hour.
+And Jack's valiant work had helped inspire them to renewed deeds of
+endeavor.</p>
+
+<p>Paul led his chum away, for Jack was almost exhausted. Then came Mr.
+Stormways on the run, having just learned what his boy had done. He
+seized Jack in his arms, and shed tears over him; though at the same time
+his heart must have swelled within him with satisfaction that one of
+his brood had acquitted himself so well in a crisis that called for a
+cool head and nerves of steel.</p>
+
+<p>The flames kept on eating into the old building. It was now doomed, and
+the fire laddies confined their efforts to saving any furniture that
+could be carried out.</p>
+
+<p>Paul called his scouts around him, at the request of the old minister.
+They were rather a sorry looking group, though just as full of a desire
+to assist as ever. The fine new uniforms were bedraggled with mud and
+water. Several had holes burned in their coats, and that of Jack was
+a sight to behold.</p>
+
+<p>But who cared? After all, the uniforms were but an insignia of their
+connection with a great organization. New or old they stood for a
+principle; and gallantly had Stanhope Troop No. 1 responded when the
+need arose.</p>
+
+<p>The old and highly respected minister, whose heart was filled with a
+great love for the rising generation, shook hands with each and every
+scout, declaring that he was proud of the privilege.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't mind the soiling of your new uniforms, lads. Every mark found upon
+them to-morrow must serve as a badge of honor to the wearer. After this
+it will be the tried and true scout who can point to a burnt hole in his
+smart coat, and say 'I got that the night of the great fire up at
+Bradley's!' And what shall I say of this fine member of your patrol who
+so bravely risked his own life to save that of a mother's baby? Only that
+his own mother has reason to thank God to-night because of such a son. We
+all love him!" and a tear fell on Jack's hand as the old man squeezed it.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI"></a>CHAPTER XVI</h2>
+
+<h3>THE FIRE TEST</h3>
+
+
+<p>"All here, Paul!"</p>
+
+<p>Jack saluted as he said this, and smiled to see the look the scout leader
+gave his scorched and discolored uniform.</p>
+
+<p>Although Jack had spent an hour and more that morning trying to clean up
+his suit and leggins, they showed many signs of the hard service to which
+they had been put on the previous night.</p>
+
+<p>Several of the fellows carried cameras. They had signed for the
+photographic test, and hoped to get some fine views of the troop in
+action. These would possibly be entered for competition when the other
+commands in the county lined up to strive for leadership in the last
+great event&mdash;the winning of the banner.</p>
+
+<p>Presently the town clock struck the hour.</p>
+
+<p>"Fall in!"</p>
+
+<p>Two by two they marched out of town. People came to the doors to watch
+them; and many a girl waved her handkerchief vigorously. But there was no
+response. Much as some of the lads might have liked to raise a hat, and
+send back an answering salute, they had already learned how to keep their
+eyes to the front, on penalty of being given bad marks that might tell
+against them later on.</p>
+
+<p>More than one parent looked to see how the boy nearest their hearts bore
+himself. Proudly they watched the long double line swinging down the
+street, keeping excellent step, considering how little time they had had
+for drill.</p>
+
+<p>Other boys there were who stood on the corners and mocked. Of course
+these were the followers of Ted Slavin, envious of the popularity already
+attained by Paul's patrol. Some of them had been at the fire, and
+witnessed the deed of daring carried out by Jack Stormways. Jealous of
+the other troop they tried to taunt them by various cries; but without
+success.</p>
+
+<p>However, most of them did not venture to tag after the marching corps.
+They knew that even the wonderful patience of these fellows would have
+its limit, and that a sudden turn might be made upon the tormentors that
+could hardly prove pleasant for the minority.</p>
+
+<p>Out of the town limits they went, still keeping step. Ted and Ward
+trailed behind, but there was no more taunting done.</p>
+
+<p>"They mean to follow, and see what we are up to," said Jack, when he came
+alongside the leader again.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, we can't stop them from doing that, I suppose. The woods are free
+to all. Let them look. If they can pick up a few pointers, well and good.
+When we lead, you know we can afford to laugh at those who follow,"
+returned the other.</p>
+
+<p>"Sure, because they'll never catch up with us in a year," laughed Jack.</p>
+
+<p>For a full mile they continued, never once breaking ranks.</p>
+
+<p>"We're nearly there, fellows. You're doing fine, I tell you. Keep it up
+through to the end. Why, you march like veterans already!"</p>
+
+<p>In this fashion did the scout leader warm every heart, and cause those
+who were beginning to tire of the jaunt to grit their teeth, and resolve
+that nothing must be allowed to interfere with the completion of the
+march.</p>
+
+<p>"Left wheel!" came the command, as the van drew abreast of an opening
+where a wagon road entered the woods.</p>
+
+<p>Still those two curious ones trailed in the rear, determined to ascertain
+what it was that took the Fox Patrols out of town this day.</p>
+
+<p>Presently, surrounded by the giant trees, still green with their summer
+foliage, Paul gave the command to halt and break ranks.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately the twenty-six lads began fraternizing. Those owning cameras
+started to look around for openings where some promising view offered.
+But most of the scouts clustered around the leader, eager to hear what
+the programme of the day would embrace.</p>
+
+<p>"First comes the fire test. There are a dozen fellows who have come
+prepared to qualify for that. And I think we shall have an interesting
+competition. Here, all who have hatchets get busy, and cut wood."</p>
+
+<p>Paul himself led the way, for he delighted in using the little camp axe
+which he often "toted" into the woods, when hunting or camping.</p>
+
+<p>The sound of chopping soon resounded through the timber, and by degrees
+quite a pile of wood had been accumulated. But all this was simply to
+loosen up the muscles of the competitors; for they were not to be allowed
+to use any of this fuel, which was for the main campfire.</p>
+
+<p>Once this had been started, Paul distributed a dozen tin kettles that had
+been brought along. These were all of the same size. Moreover, they had a
+plain mark two-thirds of the way up, which was to limit the amount of
+cold water from the near-brook which they must contain.</p>
+
+<p>"Here are five matches for each one of you. Every fellow is placed on his
+honor not to have a single other one in his possession. You are not to
+use any kind of paper in kindling your fires. Just imagine that you are
+adrift in the wilderness, where a newspaper is never seen. And in the end
+when a kettle begins to boil the owner of it must shout and raise his
+hand. I will have inspectors appointed whose duty it will be to see that
+all is fairly done."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't we get more than these five matches?" asked one of the
+contestants.</p>
+
+<p>"That is all. And remember, that if two are tied when the quart of water
+boils, the fellow who can show the most <i>unused</i> matches comes in ahead.
+That is a valuable point, for it proves that he knows how to conserve his
+resources. A match is sometimes of priceless value to a man lost in the
+big timber."</p>
+
+<p>"Tell us again what we must do, Paul."</p>
+
+<p>"Form a line right here. When I say 'go,' every fellow dart off to some
+place he has in mind. With your hatchets you are to chop wood, and get a
+fire started as quick as you can. Then place your kettle on it, and keep
+on adding fuel until the water boils. I will time every contestant
+myself, and keep a record. But this is just a preliminary trial. We'll
+have another later on. Ready, all?"</p>
+
+<p>The twelve contestants lined up, while the others watched operations.
+Even the two outsiders had kept getting closer, so as to understand all
+that was done. And as Ward had his gold watch in his hand it was evident
+that he intended to do a little timing himself.</p>
+
+<p>"He wants to see how our best compares with what some of his fellows will
+do," remarked Jack, to Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"All right. He's welcome. The more the merrier. If they have any fellow
+who is more at home in the woods than Wallace Carberry for instance, I'd
+just like to know it," returned the other, promptly.</p>
+
+<p>"How about you, Paul? I guess Wallace would stand a mighty poor show if
+he ran a race with the head scout," returned the second in command.</p>
+
+<p>"That's something we've never settled yet. Wallace and I must have a
+chance at each other some day; but not yet. Now watch them scurry around.
+Every fellow has his mind made up where he can cut wood easiest. I've
+made them bring in all loose stuff, you see, so that they start on an
+even thing. Here goes!"</p>
+
+<p>Paul raised his hand, and exclaimed:</p>
+
+<p>"Go!"</p>
+
+<p>Immediately the dozen lads darted frantically off. Several came near
+having a collision right in the start, which would have been fatal to
+their chances for winning out; since the water in their kettles must have
+been spilled; and according to the rules of the contest they could not
+refill the same without journeying to the creek, which Paul had made sure
+was fully fifty yards distant.</p>
+
+<p>It was a laughable, as well as interesting sight.</p>
+
+<p>Having reached the various places mentally selected as the scene of their
+intended operations in fire building, the boys set down their kettles,
+and commenced to feverishly whack away at dead branches, or other wood.</p>
+
+<p>In several instances two of them happened to pick out the same place, and
+naturally there was considerable rivalry between them, as well as an
+exchange of remarks intended to irritate and delay.</p>
+
+<p>"Look at Wallace, will you!" observed Jack, presently; "nearly all the
+others have smoke going, but he's chipping away as steadily as you
+please. Why, he seems in no hurry at all. I guess he doesn't want to
+come in ahead!"</p>
+
+<p>"Wait, my boy," laughed Paul. "You don't know that sly fox. He's up to
+all the dodges at fire making, and believes in a good start. Some of
+those smokes never will amount to much, for they just struggle along, and
+threaten to go out because it takes all the puffing the fellows can give
+to keep them alive. Now he's going to strike up. Only one match needed
+with Wallace, you see."</p>
+
+<p>"And how his blaze jumps! You were right; he made sure he had enough fine
+kindling first, before starting in. Now he's adding larger stuff; and
+what's this he's doing with those stones?"</p>
+
+<p>"What do you suppose?" said the scout leader, nodding his head
+approvingly. "Making a little fireplace where he can perch his kettle,
+and have the hottest part of his fire under it. Note also that the
+opening is in the direction of the breeze. That allows the flame to be
+fanned. Wallace will never have to blow out his cheeks and puff to keep
+his blaze going."</p>
+
+<p>By this time some of the contestants were bobbing their heads to
+ascertain just how Wallace had done it; and made haste to follow suit.
+All were willing to take pattern from a past master who knew the wrinkles
+of the game.</p>
+
+<p>One upset his kettle, and despairing of having any show, withdrew from
+the race.</p>
+
+<p>Eleven fires kept on burning, some of them under protest, apparently,
+for they did not give much promise of landing their unlucky builders as
+victors.</p>
+
+<p>"How long is it?" asked Jack, presently, as certain signs caught his eye
+that told him the end was near.</p>
+
+<p>"Just nine minutes; but&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Look at Wallace," cried Jack; "he's raising his hat. There goes an
+inspector to see. He nods his head. The water must be boiling; and who
+would have thought it? Hurrah for the Carberry Twin! Look at Ted and
+Ward! They act as if they thought there was some trickery, for they're
+running up to see. I guess they've tried this game, and come in under the
+wire in about fifteen minutes. Hello! there's Bluff calling out. Good
+boy! He's going to run Wallace a race next time. But I'd like to see you
+make the test, Paul?"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII"></a>CHAPTER XVII</h2>
+
+<h3>CLEARING SKIES</h3>
+
+
+<p>Paul made no reply to this remark of his chum.</p>
+
+<p>Having studied the charms of outdoor life always, he knew that he would
+be placing his friends under a heavy handicap if he ever attempted to
+compete with them in woodlore.</p>
+
+<p>True, just as he said, Wallace was somewhat of an unknown quantity; for
+he, too, seemed to have a deep love for everything connected with life in
+the forest, and never tired of reading books that told of pioneers and
+their ways.</p>
+
+<p>The scout leader immediately started some of the boys along another tack.
+They were given a chance to find a lost trail, to detect all manner of
+signs such as would be apt to tell how long previously some one had
+passed that way; and to discover where the tracks came out of the creek,
+upon the bed of which the unknown had walked quite some distance.</p>
+
+<p>Of course, Paul had made the trail himself in the morning, running out
+here on his wheel so as to prepare the ground. And when they all failed
+to find out just how the party had left the creek, since the marked
+tracks did not seem to appear anywhere along the banks, he pointed to
+where the limb of a tree hung down over the water.</p>
+
+<p>"That's the ticket!" cried Bobolink, excitedly. "See, fellows, how it's
+skinned where his shoes scraped along it."</p>
+
+<p>"As sure as shooting he climbed up into that tree!" declared one,
+excitedly.</p>
+
+<p>"Then scatter, and examine the ground around the trunk!" said Paul.</p>
+
+<p>A minute or so later a happy whoop announced that one of the searchers
+had discovered the wished-for signs; and away the whole troop went on
+a trot, following the leader.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile the photographers managed to get in some of their efforts,
+possibly unbeknown to the rest. Exposures where the subjects are
+unconscious of their posing always turn out best; since they avoid
+stiffness, such as ruins so many otherwise interesting pictures.</p>
+
+<p>Here, with the woods for a background, Paul, acting by agreement as
+temporary scout master, drilled his followers in scout law, sign, salute,
+and the significance of the badges which they wore, all of them, of
+course, of the tenderfoot type, since few had as yet started to qualify
+for any higher plane.</p>
+
+<p>Signal flags had been brought along; and a class in semaphore work proved
+that some of the members of the troop were making rapid progress along
+that line. They had mastered the Morse code, too; and had the occasion
+arisen might have sent messages over the wire, although probably none
+save Paul could have received the same, unless the words came painfully
+slow.</p>
+
+<p>The afternoon passed almost before they realized it; and more than a few
+declared that the sun must have dropped like a plummet, when they found
+twilight creeping upon the forest.</p>
+
+<p>Both Ted and Ward had long since gone away, as though disgusted. They had
+tried to sneer at the work of Stanhope Troop No. 1; but every one knew
+this humor was assumed; and that secretly they were eating their very
+hearts out for envy.</p>
+
+<p>No doubt there would be a hot time among their followers, when the
+leaders endeavored to drive them to beat the record Wallace Carberry
+had set in his fire starting, and water-boiling test.</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose you come to supper with me, Paul," suggested Jack, when they
+were more than half way back to town, with the double column moving along
+like clockwork, every right leg thrust out in unison, as though forming a
+part of a well-regulated machine.</p>
+
+<p>Paul looked quickly at him when Jack said this.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I can see through a millstone, when it has a hole in it," he
+remarked.</p>
+
+<p>"Which is one way of saying that you can guess I have a motive in asking
+you?" returned the other, smiling queerly; "well, I have, in fact,
+several. In the first place my mother told me to ask you. I rather think
+she wants to pump you about that affair last night. Father wouldn't tell
+her all she wished to know. Then again I'm still all broken up about
+those lost coins; and I thought perhaps you might have guessed the answer
+to the riddle."</p>
+
+<p>"What's that? More of them gone, Jack?" asked Paul, lowering his voice,
+so that the two scouts at the tail end of the line might not hear.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't know yet. Didn't have the nerve to go up into my den since this
+morning. To tell the truth that place has lost all charm for me. Whenever
+I find myself there I get to shivering, and looking around, just like I
+half expected to see a ghost step out, and pick up one of those miserable
+coins right before my very eyes&mdash;ugh! it's horrible to feel that way, and
+I used to be so fond of my den, too."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I hope and expect you will be again, Jack, when we've settled this
+little thing. You say none of them were ever taken in the night?" said
+Paul, earnestly; while his knitted brows told how much he felt concerned
+over the mystery.</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly not. Always in broad daylight. That's the queer part of it,"
+returned the other, promptly.</p>
+
+<p>"Sure, seeing that they always go in the daytime, and when you're away
+from home, too. Anybody else going to be there to-night?"</p>
+
+<p>"To supper&mdash;oh! no. Karl went off after breakfast, to visit our uncle for
+a few days before school commences. I took him to the train myself, and
+then mustered up enough courage to climb up there, and once more count
+the coins," went on Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Six there then, eh?" asked Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Just as last night. And I purposely left the door unlocked."</p>
+
+<p>"Both door and window open in the bargain?" asked the other; at which
+Jack looked puzzled.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course; though that wouldn't matter at all; for any fellow could turn
+the knob, and walk in," he replied.</p>
+
+<p>"But the door was open, just like a plain invitation to enter, should
+anybody think of going up to see&mdash;say that again, please," continued
+Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I do say it again, though I can't understand why you should make
+that a point worth mentioning. Still, I have confidence in you, Paul. If
+anybody can get at the root of my trouble it's going to be you, old
+fellow."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you prove a true prophet. As for myself I'm not saying anything
+just yet, one way or another," smiled Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but I really believe that you've found out something that gives you
+a pointer, Paul. Your face tells me that. You're a wonder about following
+a trail in the woods. And I believe you see light in this darkness around
+me!" and Jack looked eagerly into the face of his chum as he said this.</p>
+
+<p>"All I'm going to confess is that I believe I'm on the trail, and that
+it seems to be getting warmer the further I go. Just hold your horses
+a little while longer, Jack, and perhaps I may be able to tell you
+something."</p>
+
+<p>"The way you smile gives me new courage, old fellow. Oh! I will be so
+glad if only it turns out all right. But here we are at the smithy. Shall
+you dismiss the troop here, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. The boys must be pretty tired after last night's work, and this
+hike; as well as the many stunts they went through with," and the
+temporary master scout presently gave the order to break ranks, and head
+for home.</p>
+
+<p>"Drop in at my house so I can tell my folks not to expect me to dinner,"
+said Paul, as they approached his home.</p>
+
+<p>There was not the slightest objection to the programme as arranged. His
+parents trusted Paul fully, knowing that, while as fond of fun as the
+next lad, he never did things likely to get him into trouble.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, first of all," remarked Paul, after they were indoors again; "let's
+go up, and make sure that anything has happened."</p>
+
+<p>The door to Jack's den stood wide open, inviting any one to enter.</p>
+
+<p>Jack had a match lighted in his hand, and with this he quickly touched
+the wick of a lamp. Paul heard him draw a long breath as he approached
+the spot where the little box lay upon the table desk at which stood the
+chair used by the owner of the den when taking his leisure here.</p>
+
+<p>He bent over, and seemed to be counting the coins. They dropped back into
+the receptacle one by one, and with such a ringing sound that even Paul
+was able to keep tally. Then Jack turned an anxious and white face
+around.</p>
+
+<p>"Paul, there are only four here. Two more have gone!" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Yet you came up here and counted them; you are positive of that?"
+demanded Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"I counted them, and there were six. Five times I did it, to be sure; yet
+you saw that there were only four just now?"</p>
+
+<p>"You came up here after you saw Karl off on the train?" persisted his
+chum.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, after I returned from the station. But what makes you ask that?
+Tell me why you are grinning so, Paul? I know I'm awfully dull just now,
+but who could blame me under the circumstances? Please speak up!" Jack
+insisted.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, don't you see, this clears Karl completely. Six here while he was
+riding away on the train this morning; and two taken when he is fifty
+miles away! Don't that satisfy you it wasn't your brother, after all,
+Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>And Jack dropped down in that chair, letting his head fall in his hands,
+while a great joy overspread his face.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII"></a>CHAPTER XVIII</h2>
+
+<h3>CARLO DOES HIS TURN</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Paul, you're a wizard, I do believe!" said Jack, after a bit, as he
+looked up at his chum.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I hardly think so. This thing was easy; and ten to one you'd have
+thought of it sooner or later. For how could Karl have anything to do
+with the bad business while he was up at your uncle's?" laughed the
+other, with his customary modesty.</p>
+
+<p>"But if not Karl, then who got my old coins?" persisted Jack, smiling
+now.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I'm not quite ready to say. I've got two ideas I'm chasing after
+now. Give me just a little more time on that, will you, old fellow?"
+replied the visitor, as he dropped down on a cot, and let his eyes rove
+along the exhibit of college colors illuminating the walls.</p>
+
+<p>He drew the little box that held the coins toward him. When Jack was not
+observing, Paul took the contents out, one by one, and seemed to be
+examining them closely. He even scratched one with his finger nail, and
+the result appeared to please him, for he chuckled softly. Evidently he
+had made a discovery which he deemed important.</p>
+
+<p>Jack, having finished some little task with which he had busied himself,
+came back to his chum.</p>
+
+<p>"See here, Paul," he remarked; "I'm not going to ask you to tell me who
+it is you suspect; but do I know him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Sure," replied his chum; "and perhaps after we've found out the
+wonderful secret, you may even find it in your heart to look on it as
+a joke, and forgive him."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't say? Perhaps, though, I might hardly feel like forgiving a
+fellow who would be mean enough to sneak up here so often, and take my
+old coins. Think of the ugly feelings he's made me have toward my own
+brother. I'll never look Karl in the eye after this without feeling
+conscience-stricken. I don't know about forgiving him so easy as all
+that," grumbled Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! well, don't cross a bridge till you come to it. That's a good motto
+for you and for me. Perhaps there are times when I feel the need of it.
+Perhaps there's one right now," and Paul shrugged his shoulders as he
+spoke, half laughingly.</p>
+
+<p>"There, I knew that something had gone wrong with you lately. I've
+watched you when you thought I wasn't looking, and I've seen you frown.
+Suppose you take your old chum into your confidence, Paul? What's
+happened? Any trouble at home? Are you bothered over the Boy Scout troop
+we've been organizing? Is it about your school affairs?"</p>
+
+<p>Paul shook his head each time the other brought forward a suggestion.</p>
+
+<p>"You're a most determined fellow, Jack," he said, good naturedly; "and
+perhaps I hadn't ought to speak of such a thing to anybody; but we've
+been chums so long, and misery likes company, you know."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you <i>are</i> in trouble; and you mean to confess to me? Thank you,
+Paul, for what you say. I don't think I ever had any cause for worrying
+that I didn't come straight to you for comfort. And I always got it,
+too."</p>
+
+<p>"Even when you and Dorothy had that nasty little spat that began to look
+serious until I just happened to find the note that made all the trouble,
+and forced Eli Kosmer to confess he wrote it. You remember that time,
+Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"I guess I do. Dorothy often speaks of it to this day; for we're good
+friends, and always will be. But see here, why do you just happen to
+mention that business? Oh! I begin to see now," added Jack, as Paul
+turned red in the face, and laughed in a rather constrained way.</p>
+
+<p>"I shouldn't wonder but what you did. I'm sure I've denied every other
+cause you could think of," he said, sighing heavily.</p>
+
+<p>"It's Arline then. She's been doing something. Yes, I remember now that
+I saw her out riding with Ward Kenwood only yesterday. Say, that dude has
+been saying something that wasn't true about you, Paul, I'd just wager
+anything. He's gone and poisoned her ears with a yarn. It'd be just like
+the sneak!"</p>
+
+<p>"Just go slow, Jack. You're saying something that you can't prove. Of
+course I believe myself that Ward wouldn't stop at anything like that;
+but without the least proof I can't accuse him of it," Paul said,
+severely.</p>
+
+<p>"But you could ask Arline?" his friend went on.</p>
+
+<p>"Could I? Well, when a girl chooses to turn me down without a hearing,
+and even smiles when she drives past me in the company of a fellow she
+knows I detest, and whom she has often said she disliked, what then?
+Think I would so far forget myself as to get down on my knees, and beg
+her to take me back into favor? Bah!"</p>
+
+<p>"Is it so bad as that then? Oh well, there are other girls just as pretty
+as Arline; and you've always been a great favorite with them, Paul; but
+hold on, why not let me try to straighten this thing out? You've helped
+me all right; and tit for tat is fair play."</p>
+
+<p>"H'm! how do you think you could do anything, Jack? I don't suppose you'd
+care to go straight to her, and ask her point blank what I'd done to make
+her treat me so cruelly? I shouldn't think of allowing that at all?"</p>
+
+<p>Paul tried to display an air of indifference; but it was poorly assumed;
+and his chum knew full well that he was much more pained at these strange
+actions on the part of Arline than he cared to admit.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! there are ways and ways. For instance, you know that Dorothy is one
+of the crowd of high school girls Arline goes with. Ward's sister Mazie
+is another; and that might account for her being at his house so much.
+Now, suppose you let me tell Dorothy. She'll keep it a dead secret, and
+in some way manage to get a confession. Say you will, Paul!"</p>
+
+<p>"Have it your own way, old fellow. I'm just about ready to wash my hands
+of the whole business. Besides, I've really too many irons in the fire to
+be bothering over the silly notions of girls."</p>
+
+<p>It was bravely put, but did not deceive Jack even a little bit; for he
+happened to know just how very fond his friend was of the particular girl
+in question.</p>
+
+<p>"All right, then. Consider that settled, and I won't say any more about
+it until I can report progress," remarked the latter.</p>
+
+<p>"Let's talk of other things than my poor affairs. You insisted on
+knowing; and wouldn't take no for an answer. Hello! there's Carlo asking
+to come in again. Shall I let him past the door, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why, of course. This is his den as well as mine. I keep sugar on tap, so
+as to put him through some of his paces. Here Carlo, how's your sweet
+tooth coming on?" and Jack snapped his fingers in a peculiar way.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately the educated dog squatted on his hind quarters, sat upright
+with his forepaws drooping appealingly, and waited, cocking his eyes in
+a humorous way at his young master, who had opened a drawer in his desk.</p>
+
+<p>"Just one piece left. Somebody else likes sugar as well as Carlo, I
+guess. Well, here you are, now. On trust, boy, on trust!"</p>
+
+<p>So saying he laid the piece of sugar upon the nose of the dog, balancing
+it so there could be no falling off.</p>
+
+<p>Carlo, knowing what was expected of him, sat there like a drum major,
+quivering with eagerness, yet not daring to move as long as he failed to
+hear the command.</p>
+
+<p>"Say, isn't he a sport, all right, Paul? Don't he sit up like a soldier?
+Look at his eyes fixed on me. Did you ever see such agony?"</p>
+
+<p>Paul was laughing now.</p>
+
+<p>"He's speaking with his eyes, and begging you not to stretch it out too
+far, Jack. Have a little mercy on the poor beggar. Look at his tongue
+coming out and reaching up. I think he just wants to taste that sugar.
+Give it to him now!"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Carlo knows that he can't expect to have anything on trust; but
+it's a different thing when it's paid for!"</p>
+
+<p>With the last two words, spoken in a natural tone, Carlo became
+galvanized into sudden action. He had received the cue for which he was
+waiting so patiently. Immediately he made an upward spring; the lump of
+sugar was thrown into the air, and as it came down one quick snap secured
+it, after which there was a crunching of canine teeth, and a look of
+bliss appeared on Carlo's dog face.</p>
+
+<p>"There's the supper gong. Come on down to the bathroom and wash up, Paul!
+And you come, too, old dog. No more sugar here; see, the drawer is empty.
+Carlo never comes up here without sniffing at that drawer, and looking at
+me knowingly. Go ahead, Paul, and I'll put out the lamp."</p>
+
+<p>So they went downstairs, and after a while sought the dining room, where
+Paul met both parents of his chum, as well as a gentleman who was
+visiting Mr. Stormways.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Jared Pender, an old schoolmate of mine, and with whom I made
+several voyages abroad years ago," said Mr. Stormways. "He is in the
+employ of the Government now, and has to make visits all over the
+country, you know."</p>
+
+<p>Paul had once met a gentleman who was a post-office inspector, and
+somehow took it for granted that Mr. Pender might be engaged in some
+similar business; at any rate it concerned him not at all he concluded,
+just what the gentleman's private affairs might be, and he gave the
+subject little thought.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX"></a>CHAPTER XIX</h2>
+
+<h3>THE WARNING OVER THE WIRE</h3>
+
+
+<p>After supper the two boys once more ascended to the snuggery near the
+roof.</p>
+
+<p>There was no further reference made to either the disappearance of the
+old coins, or Paul's little heart trouble with his girl chum.</p>
+
+<p>They had a number of books loaned them by the good old minister and which
+were full of interesting facts connected with the wonderful Boy Scout
+movement, especially over in England, where it originated.</p>
+
+<p>Paul was deeply interested in picking out all features that would appeal
+to American lads. Until they had found the right party to take the
+position of troop master he wished to play the part of scout leader in
+such fashion that no one could pick a flaw with his management.</p>
+
+<p>Usually it is some adult to whom this important position is entrusted
+from the start; Paul, however, had long been known to be so deeply
+interested in many of the branches which concern life in the open, that
+his mates were only too glad to have him occupy the exalted position of
+leader for the time being.</p>
+
+<p>When they knew as much as Paul did, they believed they would be well
+qualified to pass for a first-class scout's assignment.</p>
+
+<p>So Paul, with the assistance of his comrade, was selecting many
+interesting competitions. By means of these the boys could be tested as
+to their knowledge of those things so important to the boy scouts.</p>
+
+<p>He made many charts showing the different footprints of wild animals, as
+well as those of the domestic cat and dog. By following the tracks of
+a rabbit a most interesting as well as instructive story could be made
+out. It was possible just from the marks on the ground, or the snow, to
+tell how the animal had been frightened into wild flight, by what sort of
+enemy it had been pursued, where the swoop of owl or eagle had brought
+specks of blood upon the leaves or white snow, and finally the picked
+bones of poor bunny would reveal the secret of the windup of the chase.</p>
+
+<p>So, in every case, the student of nature could weave a story out of
+the marks discovered. It was so in the days of the Indian, when old
+Leatherstocking and his long-barreled rifle were leading factors in the
+life of the wilds. Daniel Boone and his pioneers used to read such signs
+as easily as any boy might the pages of this book. And the deeper any lad
+dips into such fascinating studies the more he wants to learn.</p>
+
+<p>When half past nine came Paul said he must be going.</p>
+
+<p>"I've had a jolly evening of it, Jack, and enjoyed every minute with you.
+When we get the boys together again we can have half a dozen competitions
+going on at once," he said as he arose and stretched himself.</p>
+
+<p>"That's so," replied the other, following suit; while even Carlo arched
+his broad back, and prepared to follow them downstairs; "and the best
+of this thing is that the more you go into it the greater it gets. I'm
+fairly wild to keep it up."</p>
+
+<p>Just as the boys reached the lower floor the telephone bell rang, and
+Jack, being near, stepped over to the small table in the hall on which
+the receiver rested.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sure, he's here. Hold the wire," Paul heard him say, as he smiled;
+and then turning to his friend Jack continued: "here, Paul, take hold.
+Somebody wants to talk with you. Says he called up your house, and they
+told him you were over at my home."</p>
+
+<p>Paul of course wondered who could be wanting him so positively that he
+even followed him over to the Stormways house.</p>
+
+<p>"Hello! hello!" he said, quietly.</p>
+
+<p>"That you, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>"It's Bobolink, I guess," remarked Paul, for the benefit of his chum who
+stood by, listening curiously.</p>
+
+<p>"That's right," continued the voice over the wire.</p>
+
+<p>"What's doing to make you chase me up this way, Number Three?" Paul went
+on.</p>
+
+<p>"That's the trouble; I just don't know for sure. But when I caught Ted's
+voice among the bunch I said to myself, they're up to no good; and I bet
+it's Paul they are laying for."</p>
+
+<p>"Hey! what's that? Who's laying for me, and where?" demanded the startled
+boy.</p>
+
+<p>"Listen, and I'll tell you all I learned. 'Taint much, but I know that
+critter so well that I wouldn't put it past him to try and knock you out,
+so that all our drilling in the woods would be upset, and his crowd get
+an advantage."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! bosh! What's this you're giving me, Bobolink?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I expected you'd say that. Think I'm stringing you, don't you,
+Paul? But I'm not, all the same. Listen again. Perhaps Ted and two of
+his cronies have gone and dressed up in some old Hallowe'en toggery until
+they look like a set of bears or hyenas just to frolic around a bit.
+Well, mebbe they have; but tell me just why they are hiding close to
+<i>your</i> place?" continued the talkative yet determined Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"When did you see them?" demanded the other.</p>
+
+<p>"Not more'n eight minutes ago, Paul. Was comin' home myself. Been over
+to Bluff's house to fix up some surprises we expect to play on all you
+fellers later on, and show you what we know about this scoutin' business.
+On the way home I turned in and passed your house. Often come that way,
+you know," and the speaker paused as if for breath, or to hear Paul admit
+the fact.</p>
+
+<p>"Sure. Go on, you slow turtle. You've got me keyed up now to my top-notch
+curiosity. Give us the rest of the yarn," said Paul, eagerly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yarn! H'm! there you go, making out I'm hatching up a story. But take my
+word for it, Paul, three fellers are hidin' in the bushes close to your
+place, and expectin' some one to pass along in the dark. They started to
+jump out at me, and then I heard Ted's voice growlin' to 'em to fade
+away, that it wasn't the right one. Thought I'd just ask you if you could
+explain what it meant. When your mother told me you was over with Jack I
+saw a light, and that's what."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I'm glad you told me, Bobolink. A good scout is always on the
+alert to do his comrade a clever turn; and I won't forget this. That
+all?"</p>
+
+<p>"But now I've told you, Paul, aren't you goin' to slip around the back
+way, and let them fellers take it out waitin'? Three to one is too much.
+They'll do you up, and make out 'twas only horseplay. Please give 'em the
+slip, Paul. We need you in our business, you know."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll see about it, Bobolink. Thanks, good-bye!" and Paul switched off.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, what's all this about?" asked Jack, as his chum turned toward him,
+with a frown on his face, and a gleam in his eye that the other knew
+stood for grim determination.</p>
+
+<p>"He says there are three fellows lying in wait in the bushes near my
+place, all rigged up in their Hallowe'en toggery; and that he believes
+they know I am over at your house. That's all," remarked Paul, with a
+little nervous laugh, and a clinching of his hands.</p>
+
+<p>"Good gracious! you don't say; three of them waiting to pounce on you!
+Did he seem to know who they were?" asked Jack, looking worried.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you might guess that easy enough," replied Paul, scornfully.</p>
+
+<p>"Ted Slavin and some of his ugly ducklings?"</p>
+
+<p>"Bobolink says he recognized Ted's voice. And, I suppose my warm friend
+Ward is one of the others. He never loses a chance to get a dig in at
+me."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know," returned Jack, thoughtfully; "to tell the honest truth I
+hardly think he can be one of the bunch, because his sister took Arline
+home with her to supper; and I guess Ward couldn't be coaxed out while
+<i>she</i> is there."</p>
+
+<p>Paul winced, but said nothing.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! well, it doesn't matter much after all. They're a lot of cowards, or
+else they wouldn't be concerned in such a low game. You can give them the
+slip by going around the back way," and Jack chuckled at the thought of
+those silly fellows waiting an hour or two for the expected victim who
+never came, and then going home in sheer disgust.</p>
+
+<p>Paul shook his head.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, that's just what Bobolink said, too; but I've made up my mind that
+I'm not going to sneak home, like a dog with his tail between his legs,"
+he said, shutting his teeth hard together.</p>
+
+<p>"You mean that you'll take the street that leads to the front of your
+house? Oh I well, they'll hardly tackle us when they see there are two,"
+remarked Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"And by that you mean you expect to go along. I won't let you do anything
+of the kind. Even if they allowed us to pass by, don't you think they'd
+be apt to take it out of you when you returned alone? No, I'm your
+superior officer, and I order you to stop right here where you belong;
+do you understand, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well," grumbled Jack, shaking his head as if convinced against his will;
+"I know you too well to try and go up against you when your mind's made
+up; but just the same I think it's a mean shame that you won't let me
+walk home with you. Think if they did jump out at us what a jolly time
+we'd have handing 'em more than they expected."</p>
+
+<p>"Give it up, old fellow. But I tell you what I can do. You remember that
+baseball bat of mine that's been lying over here so long? I'll carry it
+home now, and save you the trouble, thank you," nodded Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Bully! a good idea. Here it is behind the door. And Paul, don't spare
+the measly bunch; but whack 'em good and hard."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX"></a>CHAPTER XX</h2>
+
+<h3>SUCH GLORIOUS LUCK</h3>
+
+
+<p>Paul walked down the street, swinging the baseball bat carelessly, and
+softly whistling to himself.</p>
+
+<p>He left the street on which his chum's house fronted, and presently came
+to his own thoroughfare.</p>
+
+<p>"H'm!" he said to himself, as he boldly turned in here; "looks kind of
+half dark for a fact; but that always suits fellows up to a mean dodge. I
+musn't hit too hard, for this is an awful tough old bat, that has brought
+me in more than a few home-runs. Well, it's helping me make one now," and
+he actually snickered at the conceit.</p>
+
+<p>As he advanced he braced himself for the expected fray. Of old he knew
+Ted Slavin was a muscular fellow, capable of enforcing obedience from his
+slavish followers.</p>
+
+<p>What was that? He certainly heard the sound of voices a little further
+along. And somehow one of them seemed to give Paul a strange feeling;
+for he was positive that it was a girl's tones; and he recognized them
+too!</p>
+
+<p>Ward Kenwood was taking Arline home; and for some unknown reason chose to
+select this very street as a part of his route, although it was a little
+out of the way.</p>
+
+<p>How strange that they should all come together just at that very
+identical spot, where the trio of ambushed boys were crouching, ready to
+spring out.</p>
+
+<p>Ah! Paul caught sight of something moving close by. He felt sure that it
+must be the concealed fellows, launching their boom. Yes, now he could
+make out their figures as they emerged from the bushes on the jump.</p>
+
+<p>Some one screamed. It must be Arline, frightened by the appearance of
+these ugly, uncouth forms dancing upon the pavement.</p>
+
+<p>Instantly the greatest confusion existed, with the ambushers attacking
+Paul, to shout in consternation when he began to thump them heartily on
+the legs and backs with his baseball bat; and the girl standing there
+trying to shut out, with her clasped hands, the strange sight, seen so
+dimly in the half darkness.</p>
+
+<p>The patter of feet down the street told only too well where her protector
+had gone; but he was valiantly calling lustily for help as he ran.</p>
+
+<p>Met by such a determined opposition, overwhelmed by the shower of punches
+and whacks that seemed to be freighted with painful reminders; and
+startled by the cries of the fleeing Ward, not to mention the little
+shrieks of Arline, the three boys who had been the cause of all this
+excitement soon had enough.</p>
+
+<p>"Skip out, fellers!" roared Ted, as he almost doubled up when the
+swinging bat came with considerable force against his ribs.</p>
+
+<p>The others were only too willing to obey. Away they clattered after the
+fleeing Ward, who, hearing what he took to be a hot pursuit, let loose
+more vigorously than ever, still crying for assistance.</p>
+
+<p>Paul was laughing now, for the comical side of the thing seemed to have
+occurred to him. He took out a match and struck it. As the light flamed
+up, Arline, who had by now ceased her cries of alarm, possibly guessing
+the truth, stared at the face of the victor.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! Paul! is it you?" she said; and somehow he seemed to understand that
+she was more than glad of the opportunity to make up with him.</p>
+
+<p>Boylike he pretended to hold back, and as the light went out, leaving
+them once more in the gloom, he remarked:</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, those fellows were lying in wait for me. They expected to give
+me a sound thumping; but I was warned and ready. I'm sorry that you were
+annoyed by the row, Miss Blair. I'll stay here with you until your
+company comes back. I think he must have gone for help!" this with some
+bitterness and scorn.</p>
+
+<p>She moved closer to him. Possibly the darkness made her afraid; and then
+again some other cause may have influenced her.</p>
+
+<p>Paul felt her hand on his arm, and was thrilled when she said:</p>
+
+<p>"Please don't mention him to me again. Oh! what a miserable coward, to
+run off and leave a girl that way. Won't <i>you</i> take me home, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>He could not say anything for a minute, he was so overcome. And perhaps
+Arline thought he must still be angry because she had treated him so
+shabbily of late.</p>
+
+<p>"Please, please do, Paul. I want to tell you how sorry I am for believing
+what came to me in a roundabout way. I'll never forgive myself, never!"
+she went on, clinging to his arms.</p>
+
+<p>Paul could hold out no longer.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course I will, Arline, and glad of the chance. Come on before anybody
+hurries out to see what all this noise means."</p>
+
+<p>So they walked down the street together, Paul with his faithful bat
+tucked under one arm, and a pretty girl clinging, oh! so confidingly
+to the other.</p>
+
+<p>But the boys of Stanhope often made more or less of a noise on the
+streets after dark, being filled with exurberant spirits; and so no one
+thought it worth while to investigate what all the racket meant.</p>
+
+<p>Paul heard what had been carried to the ears of Arline, and had no
+trouble in proving to her complete satisfaction that he was entirely
+innocent of the charge.</p>
+
+<p>"And to think that I allowed myself to believe it," said the girl, almost
+crying; "oh! Paul, will you ever forgive me? Nothing can ever make me
+listen to anything wrong about you again. I wonder if he had a hand in
+hatching that wretched story up. If I knew it I would tell him to his
+face what I thought of him!"</p>
+
+<p>"You mean Ward. Please don't do that. I really can't believe any fellow
+would be so mean and low. It must have been just accident that coupled my
+name with that affair. But I'm satisfied if you say we're going to be
+just as good friends as ever," Paul said, warmly.</p>
+
+<p>"Better than ever, I hope, Paul. I've had my lesson. It will never happen
+again, I promise you," she answered, pressing his arm as she spoke.</p>
+
+<p>So Paul saw her safely to her door, and then said good-night; but Arline
+insisted upon shaking hands with him; and the tingle of his fingers as he
+walked down the street made him laugh with joy.</p>
+
+<p>"What luck!" he kept saying to himself, as he made out to shake his own
+hand; "and what a mess of it Ward made of his chances. He thought to have
+the laugh on me if we met, and here the shoe is on the other foot. Oh!
+I'm not complaining a little bit. Everything's coming my way now."</p>
+
+<p>Nothing further happened on his way home. But when he reached the house
+his father met him with the announcement that Jack was holding the wire,
+and waiting for him.</p>
+
+<p>"On deck there!" he said, briskly, and heard an exclamation of relief.</p>
+
+<p>"How is it, Paul? Anything doing? Seemed to me I heard an awful racket
+over your way; but the nine-forty train was just coming in at the
+station, and drowned it out. Did they tackle you, son?" demanded Jack,
+eagerly.</p>
+
+<p>"Did they? Well, I guess some! Ask Ted," chuckled the one addressed.</p>
+
+<p>"You're laughing, and that tells me you enjoyed the circus. What did you
+do to poor old Ted and his cronies, Paul?" entreated the other.</p>
+
+<p>"I could tell you easier what I didn't do to 'em, Jack. I gave the boys
+about every style of punch and jab I could think of, and with my home-run
+bat too. Oh! make up your mind they're going to be a sore lot in the
+morning. And if you run up against Ted, just sniff the air for arnica. My
+word for it, he'll empty the bottle to-night on his bruises."</p>
+
+<p>"Bully! bully! and again bully! I would have rushed to assist you only
+you made me promise to keep my hands off; and you're my superior officer,
+you see. Besides, I reckoned that with such a hunky-dory bat you'd be
+able to give just pie, which you did, Paul."</p>
+
+<p>"But the half hasn't been told yet," went on the narrator.</p>
+
+<p>"What! do you mean there's a sequel to this story?" asked Jack, burning
+with eagerness apparently, to hear.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess that's what it is. Listen. Ward was just taking a young lady
+home. He chose to pass along our street, though now he wishes he hadn't;
+for they arrived just when Ted and his backers jumped out of the bushes.
+She screamed, and her escort sprinted down the street for help. After I
+had punched and pounded the three Hallowe'en left-overs from last year
+until they faded away, I had the pleasure of seeing the young lady to her
+door, yum! yum!"</p>
+
+<p>"Hurrah! and I bet all differences are patched up again between you!"
+cried Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Everything is lovely, and the goose hangs high," sang Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Meaning poor old blundering Ward. He showed himself for a coward to
+the girl he's sweet on. Oh! my, oh! me, how is the mighty fallen.
+Congratulations, good friend, and then more of them. So the clouds have
+disappeared along your horizon, just as they did on mine. I only wish I'd
+had a hand in clearing your skies."</p>
+
+<p>"So you did. You kept that baseball bat of mine until the right minute
+came. Only for that my name might have been mud," laughed Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"And if you'd only open your heart now, and give me a hint about the
+fellow you believe has been playing that trick on me with my old
+coins&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Just you wait a little. It's coming soon. So-long!" and with a click the
+connection was cut off.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI"></a>CHAPTER XXI</h2>
+
+<h3>THE MEETING</h3>
+
+
+<p>"How are you, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>It was Mr. Jared Pender who came out of the post-office as Paul happened
+to be passing the next day, and addressed the boy he had met on the
+preceding evening at the house of the Stormways.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, how do you do, Mr. Pender? Been at work, I see," replied Paul, with
+a suggestive look in the direction of the post-office.</p>
+
+<p>The tall dark gentleman looked a little perplexed, and followed Paul's
+glance. Then an expression of understanding passed over his face.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! yes, I see, you are a good guesser, Paul. But please do not mention
+the fact to any one. We Government officials sometimes have to work
+<i>sub rosa</i>, as the saying is; that means without any one knowing what we
+are at. You understand, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir, I guess I do; but I hope there's nothing wrong here at our
+post-office. We all think the world of Mr. Mygatt, and his clerks," said
+Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! don't mention such a thing. We have to investigate many times just
+to discover how smoothly things are going on. Isn't that Jack's dog
+coming out with a package of papers in his mouth? Has he actually been
+down for the mail?" went on the gentleman.</p>
+
+<p>"That's Carlo, all right. Sometimes they give him the mail when there are
+no letters, as you see."</p>
+
+<p>"And will he carry the bundles home safely, without stopping to play with
+other dogs, or to fight?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! Carlo knows his duty. He never forgets what is expected of him.
+There, sir, look at him halting for a minute at the open door of the
+butcher shop, to wag his tail, and peep in. It smells mighty inviting to
+him, I wager; but will he go in? Not much. See, there he goes along,
+heading straight for home. If another dog picked a fight with him, Carlo
+would lay that package down, give the cur a good licking, then pick the
+papers up again, and trot along."</p>
+
+<p>"I see you know his traits well, Paul," remarked the gentleman, smiling.</p>
+
+<p>"Some of them, but not all. He's a great dog, all right, and Jack's fond
+of him."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose money couldn't buy him, then?" suggested Mr. Pender.</p>
+
+<p>"It would be useless to try it, sir, I think. Will you stay long with Mr.
+Stormways?"</p>
+
+<p>"That I cannot say. My business may be completed in a day, and it may
+keep me in this vicinity for a week. That depends on circumstances. You
+have been around more or less, Paul; do you happen to remember seeing a
+large red touring car, with a khaki-colored cover, and occupied by two
+men, one of whom has a glass eye?"</p>
+
+<p>Paul stared at the tall gentleman, as though he thought at first the
+other might be joking him; but seeing not a ripple of a smile on the dark
+face, he changed his mind.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, no, sir; I can't seem to remember seeing that particular car. Of
+course red ones are common; but most of them have black tops, if any at
+all. Some friends of yours, Mr. Pender?" he remarked, naturally.</p>
+
+<p>The gentleman allowed just a twinkle to appear in the corners of his eyes
+as he nodded his head, and said:</p>
+
+<p>"Well, er&mdash;yes, very particular friends of mine, Paul, and whom I would
+be glad to see again right now. If you happen to sight such a machine,
+and I am still at my old friend, Stormways, I wish you would let me know
+about it."</p>
+
+<p>"I certainly will, sir; and perhaps you'd like me to speak to the
+gentlemen, and tell them how anxious you are to see them?" Paul went on;
+at which the other gave a laugh.</p>
+
+<p>"I see you are on to me, my boy. You guess that such is the very last
+thing I would want you to do. Now, I'm going to take you into my
+confidence, Paul," he went on, bending his head lower, and giving a quick
+glance around.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; that's very kind of you, Mr. Pender," said the lad, smiling.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I don't know. I have an axe to grind in doing so; for I believe
+that you can be of assistance to me. The two men in that motor car are
+criminals, for whose capture I have come to this part of the country,
+Paul."</p>
+
+<p>"Goodness! that sounds interesting, sir. What have they been doing?"
+asked the young scout leader, with boyish curiosity brimming over.</p>
+
+<p>"I won't tell you that, Paul; but they are wanted by the Government. And
+sometimes we agents have to go about our business with great caution, in
+order to discover enough evidence on the suspects to convict. So, above
+all things, I do not wish to alarm these clever gentlemen unduly, lest
+they manage to hide, or get rid of the only burden of proof. In other
+words, as a common expression has it, I want to get them with the goods
+on. You understand?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; I think I do. And if I see or hear anything about that red
+car, I'll tell you. But is it true that you and Jack's father were chums
+long ago?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's the positive truth, my boy," replied the agent, nodding; "why, we
+took several voyages together, and had lots of queer adventures. I never
+dreamed that my wild old friend Alan would settle down to this humdrum
+life, as a lumber merchant, and the head of a family. But I suppose it
+all came of his meeting a girl. And after knowing his fine wife I don't
+blame him a bit; though I've kept right along in the same old groove, and
+see more or less of adventure."</p>
+
+<p>"He's a mighty fine man, and they think lots of him here," declared Paul,
+who was amazed to learn that his chum's parent could have, once upon a
+time, been reckoned a wild blade.</p>
+
+<p>Paul walked on with his lips puckered up as if whistling, and his face
+filled with the new interest that had taken possession of him.</p>
+
+<p>He had read accounts in the papers of Boy Scouts being concerned in many
+useful enterprises; and he wondered whether he and his patrol might not
+find a chance to assist the officers of justice in rounding up a couple
+of rogues who had apparently broken the laws of the land.</p>
+
+<p>Then other things came up to draw his attention elsewhere.</p>
+
+<p>He ran across boys on the street, who asked dozens of questions about the
+many interesting features of the new organization.</p>
+
+<p>These were often lads who had begun to think of uniting with one of the
+rival troops; and Paul was only too glad to give them all the information
+in his power.</p>
+
+<p>They wanted more recruits, provided the applicants were of the right
+sort. Those their committee rejected might find solace in joining forces
+with Ted's crowd, who, not being at all particular, would receive them
+with open arms.</p>
+
+<p>That afternoon there was another meeting in the woods, at which every
+member of Stanhope Troop No 1, as they now determined to call their
+organization, did his best to be present.</p>
+
+<p>Paul had given several of the boys duties to perform, that were part and
+parcel of the grand scheme to whip his company into first-class shape in
+a shorter time than it had taken any other troop.</p>
+
+<p>Reports were received and filed of numerous things done which would count
+in the final summing up. These were to be accompanied by vouchers from
+the persons interested, which could be filed away for inspection when the
+committee appointed by the giver of the fine banner looked through the
+records of the several patrols competing for the prize.</p>
+
+<p>Andy Flinn and Philip Towns reported that they had cleaned up the
+beautiful green in front of the town high school, and which was generally
+known as the campus. It was kept mowed by the town authorities; but
+numerous scraps of paper and trash, blowing hither and thither in the
+wind, gave it an unsightly appearance.</p>
+
+<p>"Never forget that you have taken our campus under your protecting care,
+Numbers Three and Four of the Gray Fox patrol," said the head scout,
+after reading the report; "of course it is always your privilege to
+enlist smaller boys in the job, if you can do so without actually hiring
+them. That is expressly forbidden."</p>
+
+<p>Then came Wallace Carberry and Tom Betts, telling how they had started
+a crusade to cover the entire town with receptacles to contain stray
+rubbish. Half a dozen cans had already been ordered, each one of which
+was to have in startling red letters the significant picture of a staring
+eye, and followed by the words, "Eat Trash!"</p>
+
+<p>"We've got a contribution box ready, and every scout is privileged to
+drop in pennies and nickels that he has earned. No others accepted; and
+no larger amount at one time from any boy desired. Have already enough to
+pay for two of the cans; and hope to increase the order soon!"</p>
+
+<p>Cheers greeted this announcement. Others, who had heard about the good
+work being started by Numbers Seven and Eight of the Red Fox patrol,
+arose to announce that their mothers had promised to throw all sorts of
+opportunities for earning money in their way, if it was to be devoted
+to such a fine purpose.</p>
+
+<p>"The Women's Club is to bring this thing up at its next meeting. My
+mother says it shames them to know that the boys of the town are taking
+such a leading part in cleaning it up," said Bobolink, when he found an
+opening.</p>
+
+<p>"Who's next to report?" asked Jack, who had charge of this end of the
+meeting; while the "honorable secretary" made notes, and filed away the
+various papers submitted.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately all eyes were turned toward Bobolink and Bluff, which team
+was known as Three and Four.</p>
+
+<p>Bluff started to rise, when a groan greeted him; but he was not dismayed.</p>
+
+<p>"Our r-r-report will be d-d-delivered b-b-by my c-c-confederate!" he
+simply said, and subsided with a grin, as though he thought he had
+hoodwinked his friends.</p>
+
+<p>Bobolink arose slowly. When he chose he could be very tantalizing; though
+in an emergency none might excel him in speedy action. But when he had
+something to tell that he knew was being eagerly awaited, he liked to
+keep his chums in suspense just as long as he dared.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately all sounds died away. Every one seemed to know that Numbers
+Three and Four had been delegated to attempt an actual scouting trip that
+morning, into a hostile territory, so as to learn what progress a rival
+camp was making in the various degrees of efficiency.</p>
+
+<p>They had already heard about Manchester, and a few believed that they
+would have little difficulty in excelling that town when it came down
+to an actual test.</p>
+
+<p>With Aldine it was different. From all sources had come hints to the
+effect that the troop in that town was working most faithfully, with an
+eye on that coveted banner. And every scout in Paul's patrol felt wild to
+know how much truth there might be in these reports.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXII" id="CHAPTER_XXII"></a>CHAPTER XXII</h2>
+
+<h3>SCOUTING IN EARNEST</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Hurry up, old molasses! Winter's coming."</p>
+
+<p>"Hit up the pace, won't you, please, Bobby?"</p>
+
+<p>Bobolink grinned. This was apparently just what he liked. When, however,
+he saw a restless movement among some of the more impatient, as though
+they were stooping down to gather chips to shy at him, he knew the time
+had come to open those sphinx-like lips, and speak.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Chairman, ladies and gentlemen," he began, when a roar interrupted
+him, so that he pretended to hastily remedy his error&mdash;"I mean just
+gentlemen; I have the honor to report that your committee waited on the
+brothers of the Aldine troop, though unbeknown to their keenest scouts,
+and watched the entire operations at their called meeting this morning."</p>
+
+<p>"Good! Fine! Keep it up, Old Leatherstocking!"</p>
+
+<p>"We learned that they are working like mad to excel in all the arts that
+interest the scouting fraternity. Competitions were being run off in
+every branch of the woodcraft business. We saw fires started, camps made,
+trails followed, boats mended, fish flies tied, rods that had been made
+by single members; we heard of all sorts of clever things that were being
+done in Aldine that would give the troop marks in the grand round-up. We
+listened to splendid speeches from the really efficient scout master, and
+our hearts warmed within us toward the gallant foe against whom we must
+soon be pitted; just as our bones ached because we had to squat there
+high up in that tree over their camp, like a couple of roosting monkeys."</p>
+
+<p>"Hear! hear! Bully for our monkeys! They're all to the good!" shouted
+some of the more demonstrative boys, waving their hats wildly.</p>
+
+<p>Bobolink stopped to give a few melancholy dabs at his thighs, just as
+though they still ached from the long service in the tree; while Bluff
+managed to emit a series of sympathetic groans.</p>
+
+<p>Then the orator took up his theme again; and when Bobolink chose he could
+even run Wallace Carberry a warm race on the school rostrum.</p>
+
+<p>"Some people might think that it was hardly fair in us to spy on our
+rivals; but we are running our troop under strictly military rules. It's
+always fair to try and find out what you are going to be up against when
+entering a competition. We are badly handicapped, because both of these
+other troops in the county have been working all summer; and we've got to
+come up from behind in our attempt to capture the prize. That's right,
+isn't it, fellows?"</p>
+
+<p>"Sure! We only want to know if they're going to make a big fight; or
+whether they expect to have a walk-over. Besides, I happen to know that
+there was a Bald Eagle from Aldine watching us work yesterday. He had
+a field glass, and was hidden where he could see all that went on."</p>
+
+<p>It was Jud Elderkin who made this astonishing declaration; and what he
+said created quite a stir among the assembled scouts.</p>
+
+<p>"All right. We didn't go there expecting to steal any of their thunder,
+fellows," said Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course not," asserted the nearest scouts.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, how did you find it?" demanded William.</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't see that they had anything on us. Of course they did lots of
+things better, because they've had a heap more experience; but there's
+time between now and Thanksgiving for the scouts of the Stanhope troop to
+get a move on, and shake all rivals out of their boots. That's all," and
+Bobolink made a sudden duck to get out of the lime-light.</p>
+
+<p>"Hurrah! Well done, Three and Four of the Red Fox patrol! Whenever we've
+got any more climbing to do, we know where to get the monkeys!" cried
+William, with a mock bow in the direction of the blushing Bluff, and the
+grinning Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"I congratulate the scouts on the way they carried out their mission. It
+was worthy of the annals of Cooper. May I ask how they learned just where
+the camp of the Aldine Troop was to be pitched?" asked Paul.</p>
+
+<p>Bluff was no longer to be repressed; but sprang erect.</p>
+
+<p>"I d-d-discovered that they always w-w-went to a p-p-particular
+p-p-place; and w-w-when we s-s-saw that noble tree, why, we j-j-just
+l-l-looked at each other, and s-s-shook hands. Then we c-c-climbed up
+before the f-f-first eagle f-f-flew that way. T-t-thank you gentlemen
+f-f-for your k-k-kind attention."</p>
+
+<p>"Wow! he got that in pat, all right. When Bluff makes up his mind to
+hustle he can beat the band. I move a vote of thanks to these most
+efficient scouts," said Wallace, pushing forward.</p>
+
+<p>They were given with a will; after which other reports came to show what
+was being accomplished in numerous lines.</p>
+
+<p>The troop photographers produced their prints, which were passed around
+for examination, and brought forth an abundance of good words. To see
+themselves in the new suits of khaki made many a fellow's heart thrill
+with pride.</p>
+
+<p>"We must have a meeting every day up to the beginning of school,"
+declared the acting scout master, finally; "for these busy Eagles have
+stolen a march on us while we slept; and we've just got to hustle now to
+catch up."</p>
+
+<p>"But we've got some mighty fine things to our credit already, and don't
+you forget it, boys. I haven't heard of a horse being stopped, and a
+child's life saved over in Aldine or Manchester," declared Wallace, with
+a proud glance toward Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Or any account of the rival troops attending a fire in a body, and
+working to beat the band until their new uniforms were next to ruined,"
+spoke up Nuthin'.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess the boys of Manchester must feel pretty small when they listen
+to the story of how a Red Fox scout walked right into a burning building,
+and snatched up a baby that had been forgotten; hey, how about that,
+fellers?" shouted William, pointing his finger at Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"We're hitting up the pace. We're going strong, and bound to make things
+hustle right up to Thanksgiving Day! Every fellow do his level best to
+bring that banner home to Stanhope!" cried Jud Elderkin.</p>
+
+<p>"We can do it!" yelled half a dozen in chorus.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, its easy money, boys. Just organized, and not a second class scout
+in the troop yet, but look at what we've done. Give us a little time,
+and we're going to make the Beavers and Bald Eagles, and all the rest
+of 'em, sit up and take notice!" avowed Nuthin'.</p>
+
+<p>"And wait until you hear the inspiring sound of my bugle, which I expect
+to have at the next meeting," said Bobolink, proudly.</p>
+
+<p>"Huh! that won't h-h-hold a c-c-candle to my d-d-drum!" declared Bluff,
+waving his arms wildly, as though he could already imagine the great fun
+in store when that instrument came to hand.</p>
+
+<p>And so the meeting broke up, with the scouts disbanding for the day. Some
+lingered to try once more the various stunts that interested them most.
+It seemed as if every fellow's heart might be wrapped up in the desire to
+win that coveted trophy, and bring the banner to his home town.</p>
+
+<p>Strange to say there had not been a single mention of the other Stanhope
+organization. None of them believed that Ted and Ward would be able to
+make the least show in the competition. They knew the habits of these
+fellows only too well. As a rule, they never won, save through trickery;
+and in the eyes of the committee appointed by the donor of the banner,
+anything that smacked of double dealing would be rigidly barred from the
+game.</p>
+
+<p>Paul and Jack, as usual, walked home together, arm in arm.</p>
+
+<p>As the recognized leaders in the movement that had so lately struck the
+boys of Stanhope, they must always have much to talk over.</p>
+
+<p>Besides that, they had their own personal affairs to discuss.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," said Jack, finally, when they found that they were alone, the
+nearest comrades being far behind on the road; "the four coins are still
+there in the snug little box, Paul."</p>
+
+<p>His companion looked quickly at him.</p>
+
+<p>"You carried out my suggestion then?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. The door has been closed and locked all day. Even the window was
+shut down and fastened," replied Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"That made the little den as tight as a drum, eh?" laughed his chum.</p>
+
+<p>"I should say it did. If any one got in there to-day he would have to
+slip through the keyhole," came from Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Unless he happened to have a duplicate key," Paul went on, seriously.
+"And since you found the four coins there that could hardly have
+happened. Sure you counted four, are you?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's positive," returned his companion; "but to tell the truth I did
+get a little scare. At first I counted only three."</p>
+
+<p>"But you found the fourth all right, Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! yes," replied the other. "It was gummed fast to the side of the box.
+I had to scrape it off before I put it back. But when do you mean to tell
+me what you know about this strange affair, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>"I guess to-morrow," answered his chum.</p>
+
+<p>"Bully for you. I'll be glad to get it off my mind. What do you want me
+to do, Paul, in the meantime?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing," came the ready response.</p>
+
+<p>"Shall I leave the den shut up as it is, then?" demanded Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Until I see you in the morning, yes," laughed Paul. "Don't be surprised
+if I pop in on you unexpectedly. Perhaps I may not want any one to see me
+go in your house, and so I might come by the back door."</p>
+
+<p>Jack looked at him in a whimsical way and shook his head.</p>
+
+<p>"You've got me guessing, all right, my boy," he declared.</p>
+
+<p>Paul instantly changed the subject, after a way he had.</p>
+
+<p>"The boys are getting on fine in that water boiling test, aren't they?
+Four had it in nine minutes, and Wallace beat his own record by nearly
+half a minute. That is going to be one thing Stanhope must excel in," he
+said.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," remarked Jack, falling in readily enough with his companion's
+desire to "talk shop," "and those photographs couldn't well be beaten.
+What a lot of new and interesting facts some of the trackers have dug out
+of the trails they followed. The papers read fine. Paul, I really begin
+to believe we're going to make a strong bid for that banner."</p>
+
+<p>Paul did not reply, and on Jack turning his head to ascertain why, he
+found his chum staring at a red automobile that had just whizzed past!</p>
+
+<p>It had a khaki-colored top!</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXIII"></a>CHAPTER XXIII</h2>
+
+<h3>THE RED CAR</h3>
+
+
+<p>"What's the matter with you, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>Jack asked this question, for of course he could not understand why his
+chum should take such a deep interest in any automobile that passed them
+on the road.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you happen to see inside that red car as it went by?" asked Paul,
+turning eagerly on his friend.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, er&mdash;yes, I did chance to be looking over your shoulders just then;
+I was a little afraid the wheels might graze you," admitted Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know the machine, then?" asked the other, in some suspense.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't believe I ever saw it before; but then, what of that? Don't dozens
+pass along here every day, that come up from the city? It's common to see
+a strange car, even if it has got a khaki-colored top, instead of a plain
+black one. Hey, Paul! what ails you?" demanded Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"It wasn't Colonel Strange, was it?" asked the other; for the gentleman
+mentioned happened to possess a red auto.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course it wasn't, because his car has a black top; and besides,
+neither of the two men was the fat colonel," replied Jack, immediately.</p>
+
+<p>Paul had learned something already.</p>
+
+<p>"Then there were two men in it, you say?" he went on, casually, as though
+much of his interest had abated.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and one of them was staring at me to beat the band. Perhaps he has
+lost a boy, and thinks I look like him. Don't let him kidnap me, will
+you, Paul?" went on Jack with pretended anxiety, as he clung to his
+companion's arm.</p>
+
+<p>"Say, look there, the car's stopped. I believe they're waiting for us!"
+declared Paul, in some excitement.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, that's what gave me such a scare, you see. That's why I'm shaking
+all over, Paul. But in union there is strength; and I'm going to hang on
+to you, if he tries to coax me to get aboard. I'm not in the long lost
+class."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! come along, and let's see what they want. He's leaning over the top
+now, and keeps beckoning to us."</p>
+
+<p>Paul started on a run. He could feel his heart beating very hard; indeed
+it was strange, he thought, that his companion did not hear it pounding
+away, and make some sort of remark.</p>
+
+<p>The chance that he had been hoping for seemed to be within his grasp. Not
+only had he discovered a car that answered the description of the one
+mentioned by Mr. Pender; but the occupants were plainly desirous of
+obtaining information of some sort, and had selected him and Jack as the
+ones most likely to give it.</p>
+
+<p>As he hurried on, he tried to control himself. It would never do to show
+more than natural curiosity in his actions. If these two men were the
+ones the gentleman stopping at Jack's house wanted to find, they must be
+smart enough to read his secret, unless he took warning.</p>
+
+<p>No sooner had he come abreast of the car than looking up he found himself
+staring into the dark face of a man who had a cruel look about him. What
+thrilled Paul, however, was the fact that one of his eyes was undoubtedly
+artificial. He had guessed this fact when Jack stated that the party
+<i>stared</i> so at him.</p>
+
+<p>All doubt was gone now, and he understood that by the strangest of luck
+he had come upon the parties for whom Mr. Pender was searching. The
+official must have known that they were headed this way for some purpose
+or other.</p>
+
+<p>"Live around here, bub?" asked the man with the glass eye, as he looked
+piercingly at Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; in Stanhope," replied the boy, surprised himself to find how
+steady his voice turned out to be under the trying circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>"How far ahead is that place?" continued the man.</p>
+
+<p>"About half a mile, sir. You can see the steeple of the Methodist church
+after you turn that bend ahead," and Paul pointed with a steady finger.</p>
+
+<p>"Huh! I wonder now if either of you happen to know a Mr. Solus Smithers?"
+and as he put the question the man shot a quick glance toward his
+companion; at which the shorter party nodded his big head, and grinned
+approvingly.</p>
+
+<p>Paul turned to his chum.</p>
+
+<p>"Say, Jack, isn't that the name of the man who took the old Grimes farm
+up at the milldam?" he asked, though he knew positively that it was so.</p>
+
+<p>"Smithers&mdash;why, yes, I reckon it is. Is he a tall man, with a hooked
+nose; and does he dip snuff?" queried Jack, innocently enough.</p>
+
+<p>"That's Solus to a dot. You see, boys, he's from North Caroliny, where
+even the wimmen use snuff, only they rub it on their teeth with a stick.
+Now, mebbe one of you boys would be so obligin' as to direct us to the
+shortest way to where this old mill stands," continued the man with the
+bogus orb.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess the quickest way to get there is to drive through Stanhope, and
+pick up the Deerfield road on the other side. It's only a few miles off;
+but the road turns lots of times to avoid the hills."</p>
+
+<p>Paul noted that the taller man seemed to invariably look to his companion
+for support. It was as though they worked in common, and neither wished
+to become responsible for action without the other's assent.</p>
+
+<p>After an interchange of low words, which the boys did not catch, the
+spokesman once more turned around. He held a silver half dollar in his
+hand.</p>
+
+<p>"Here's something for your trouble, boys. But look here, ain't there
+another way to get to that old abandoned mill without going through the
+town? To tell you the truth we lost our number away back, and might get
+hauled up because we can't show a tag on the back of the car."</p>
+
+<p>Paul had already noticed this significant fact. It is the business of a
+scout to take note of even trifles. One of the tests of memory is to look
+in at a store window for just one full minute; and then, going away, make
+out as complete a list of articles it contained as is possible.</p>
+
+<p>And still, he did not believe that this was the true reason these men
+disliked passing through Stanhope if it could be avoided. Perhaps they
+had some suspicion that Mr. Pender was visiting there; and did not want
+to take chances of his meeting them face to face.</p>
+
+<p>"Sure there is," broke in Jack, who saw no reason why he should not
+believe the artful excuse given; for Jack did not know all his chum had
+learned about these parties; "after you pass the bend yonder, just turn
+to the left. You can't miss the road, for its got a big maple tree right
+at the junction. We call that the Grapevine Road, because it twists and
+turns so; but it will fetch you out right at the old dam, mister."</p>
+
+<p>Many a time had Jack himself walked along that same winding path when
+coming home with a string of bass, taken in the mill pond. It was longer,
+to be sure, but there were some fine apple trees on the way; and the walk
+through the dense woods was so much more enjoyable on a hot summer day
+than the open stretch that marked the other route.</p>
+
+<p>The man flipped the coin in the air, and as it fell at Paul's feet he
+felt constrained to stoop and pick it up. To do anything else might have
+aroused the suspicions of the man who stared. And at the worst it meant
+another contribution toward the various funds which the boys were raising
+for many purposes.</p>
+
+<p>Boys as a rule have little objection about receiving "tainted money." And
+while Paul understood that these men had been breaking some of the laws
+of the land, he was not supposed to know the particular way in which
+their money had been gained.</p>
+
+<p>"Much obliged for the information, boys; and please don't report us in
+town as being short a license tag. We'll get a new one just as quick as
+we can. So-long!"</p>
+
+<p>As the shorter fellow started the machine his companion waved his hand at
+the two chums on the road, both of whom of course returned the salute.</p>
+
+<p>Jack watched his friend out of the corner of his eye as they walked on.
+Perhaps he was entertaining a dim suspicion that Paul might be keeping
+something from him.</p>
+
+<p>But he asked no questions; and the other volunteered no information. A
+scout is supposed to know when to hold his tongue, especially when in
+the company of his superior officer; and so Jack let the matter drop.</p>
+
+<p>"See, they've turned in, all right, Paul," he said, as he pointed to the
+broad marks of heavy tires leaving the main road, and passing under the
+spreading maple that stood at the junction with the Grapevine.</p>
+
+<p>"That's so," returned Paul, apparently not in the least interested; and
+yet as they continued to walk briskly toward home he frequently turned a
+wistful look over his left shoulder, as in fancy his thoughts followed
+those two strangers up to the old farmhouse at the mill pond.</p>
+
+<p>Who was this Solus Smithers? Could he be in league with these two men
+whom the Government expert was sent to watch? Paul remembered that he had
+heard several people talking about the man and his ways. He seemed to
+have plenty of money, yet he made no effort to farm the place he had
+rented that summer.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as they reached town he started to accompany his chum home,
+hoping to have an opportunity to see Mr. Pender in secret.</p>
+
+<p>Catching sight of that gentleman walking down for the evening mail,
+he made some excuse and broke away from Jack; who looked after him in
+bewilderment, grieved because Paul, for once, seemed to be keeping some
+secret from him.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Pender presently came out of the post-office. He had a letter in his
+hand, and was apparently much displeased at what it had contained.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, hello! Paul, my boy! Glad to see you. How is the patrol coming on?
+Some day you must allow me to watch your manoeuvers up there in the
+woods. I'm deeply interested in all such goings-on, you know," he said,
+shaking hands, heartily.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; I'll ask the boys for permission to invite you," began Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Were you looking for me, my boy?" asked the other suddenly, his keen
+eyes having doubtless detected something in the manner of the young
+scout master that gave him his idea.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir, I was," replied the one addressed.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder now if, on the top of bad news from Washington, you could be
+about to bring me new hope. Have you learned anything you want to tell
+me, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>"I've seen that red auto, and talked with the gentleman who has the glass
+eye!" said the boy, trying in vain to keep his eager voice from trembling
+with excitement.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXIV"></a>CHAPTER XXIV</h2>
+
+<h3>A CALL FOR HELP</h3>
+
+
+<p>Mr. Pender swooped down and seized Paul's hand, which he squeezed so
+heartily that he almost made the tears come to the boy's eyes.</p>
+
+<p>"That sounds good to me, my boy. Please tell me about it. Where was it at
+the time? And do you think it can have gone beyond Stanhope? I hope you
+didn't give the gentleman any idea that you had ever heard a word about
+him or his car?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I give you my word, sir, that they never dreamed I knew a thing
+about them. A scout has to learn how to keep his feelings in check, you
+see, Mr. Pender. I acted just as naturally as Jack did; and he knew
+nothing."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, tell me about it now, please."</p>
+
+<p>Stopping at the corner, Paul started in to relate all the incidents
+connected with that meeting on the road. The gentleman hung upon every
+word. He certainly looked pleased, and Paul realized that he had done
+something worth while. To his credit be it said that never once had he
+entertained the thought of receiving any sort of reward for his services.</p>
+
+<p>"All this is of the greatest importance to me, my boy. I am frank to
+tell you that the successful capture of those two men you have so ably
+described, thanks to your scout training, will mean much to me. And
+depend upon it, if success rewards my efforts, I shall certainly remember
+that you gave me very valuable assistance in the undertaking."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you think I might have a reward, don't you, Mr. Pender?" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"I most positively do, and right now and here I'm willing to promise
+you&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Wait a little, Mr. Pender. There's only one thing you could do to pay me
+for the little assistance I have been to you. Some time later on, after
+you get back to Washington, write me a letter on your official paper,
+stating just what aid the Boy Scouts of the Red Fox patrol were to you
+in furthering the ends of justice. That's all any of us could accept,
+sir."</p>
+
+<p>"By Jove! I'm proud to know such boys, and proud to shake hands
+with the fine scout leader at their head!" exclaimed the Government
+representative, as he cordially thrust out his digits.</p>
+
+<p>But "once bit, twice shy"; and Paul shook his head as he caressed his
+fingers.</p>
+
+<p>"Excuse me, won't you, Mr. Pender; but once at a time is enough. I expect
+to have a lot of use for my right hand to-night, sir," he laughed.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! pardon me, my dear boy!" cried the other, "I was forgetting that it
+wasn't the hand of a tiller of the soil I squeezed. I'll be more careful
+next time. But your news was so unexpected, coming at a moment when I had
+received some depressing information by mail, that I quite forgot myself.
+Please continue to keep these facts to yourself for a little while
+longer, Paul."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; until you give me leave to speak I won't tell anybody, not
+even my own folks at home. And if we are so fortunate as to get that
+letter from you, Stanhope Troop will have a big advantage over other
+competitors. You know, sir, we are competing for an elegant banner; and
+the other patrols have been working all summer; so that we've just got to
+get busy if we hope to have a show in."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't care if they've been going along a year, I'd be willing to wager
+that Stanhope will win the prize. That shows what faith I put in the
+leader of the Red Fox patrol. Nothing is going to ever hold you back. I
+can see the spirit glowing right now in your eyes," and Mr. Pender nodded
+his head wisely as he said this.</p>
+
+<p>Paul turned red under the praise.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Pender was apparently anxious to know all he could about the place
+around the abandoned mill.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you seen this party named Solus Smithers?" he asked, presently, as
+they walked slowly on in company.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; several times. He's a very tall and thin man, with a face I
+never liked. He's driven some of us boys away from the mill pond this
+last summer. We have always fished there, and nobody ever said a word;
+but he acted as if he had an idea some of us would steal his old house.
+He even brought out a gun once, and warned three fellows off. After a
+while no one cared to go up there. Some of the boys even said they
+believed the old man was daffy, and that he might shoot if anybody made
+him real mad."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! yes; I see; and he didn't want trespassers on his farm, eh? Does the
+mill pond stand on the ground he's rented?" asked the gentleman.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! yes, and all the ground around there. It must cover four hundred
+acres, but most of it is in woodland, you see, sir," replied Paul,
+promptly.</p>
+
+<p>"Can you tell me what Smithers looks like, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>"He's very tall, stoops quite a lot, uses snuff like they do down in
+North Carolina, and has small blue eyes and a queer nose. Some of the
+boys say it looks as if it had been broken. That man in the red car knew
+it when Jack called it a hooked nose, sir."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Pender slapped his thigh as though in great glee.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, this is great luck, sure enough. From your description I believe
+that I know this Mr. Solus Smithers, though that isn't his name at all.
+It keeps on getting better and better, the deeper I grub. And if all
+turns out well, I shall owe you a heavy debt, my dear boy."</p>
+
+<p>"Make it up in that letter then, sir. The stronger the better. And if you
+happen to need any further assistance don't hesitate to call on us. We've
+got some dandy trackers in the Red Fox patrol; and it would have to be a
+pretty smart fellow to pull the wool over their eyes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Good for you, Paul," said the gentleman, warmly; "always ready to sound
+the trumpet for your comrades; but if the truth were told I reckon I'd
+find the scout leader at the top of the bunch when it came to a knowledge
+of woodcraft."</p>
+
+<p>"Please don't, sir," pleaded Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Jack has been confiding to me all about how you've always been deeply
+interested in outdoor life," went on Mr. Pender; "but as you have told
+me all you know about this red car that has gone along the Grapevine
+Road, headed for the old mill pond, I believe I'll have to leave you.
+Take my hand, won't you, Paul? I promise to be good, and not put on
+pressure, though my heart is very warm toward you, lad."</p>
+
+<p>So Mr. Pender hurried away.</p>
+
+<p>Paul turned back. He had noticed an air of unusual excitement inside the
+post-office, and his curiosity was stirred. While Mr. Pender and his
+strange mission was in the foreground, of course, he had been able to pay
+little attention to anything else; but now that this was shelved he could
+not resist the inclination to return, and ask what made the people stand
+around in knots as though exchanging views.</p>
+
+<p>He discovered Ted Slavin and three of his friends jabbering away just
+inside the door, and heard one of them exclaim:</p>
+
+<p>"Course we will go along; it'd be a big feather in our cap, fellers, if
+we'd be the ones to bring him back."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, send out word for the boys to get together, Ted. We'll show 'em
+what we fellers that has hunted since we was knee high, know about
+follerin' a trail!" another remarked.</p>
+
+<p>"Let up, you; d'ye want to give the whole snap away? See who's here!"
+whispered Ted; but in such a hoarse tone of voice that Paul could not
+help hearing.</p>
+
+<p>Of course his curiosity was still further aroused. Whatever could have
+happened in quiet Stanhope, to cause all this gathering of people, and
+such earnest consultations?</p>
+
+<p>He saw Chief Billings, who was in charge of the police force in the town,
+leaving the post-office, and noted that a large delegation trailed after
+him.</p>
+
+<p>Could it be possible that the local authorities had in some manner become
+aware of the fact that law breakers were abroad in the land? Was Mr.
+Jared Pender, the Government expert, about to have rivals in the field?
+When those cronies of Ted spoke of following a trail could they have had
+any reference to the track of the wonderful red automobile with the
+khaki-colored top; and occupied by the two parties whom Mr. Pender wished
+to catch, as he said, "with the goods on?"</p>
+
+<p>Paul hoped not. It would complicate things very much; and in the
+confusion the rascals might manage to slip away. Paul had known Chief
+Billings to undertake a clever piece of business before now; but never
+succeed in accomplishing one.</p>
+
+<p>Some one banged into him as he turned a corner in the building.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, hello! Paul, that you?" said a voice.</p>
+
+<p>It was Si Growdy, who claimed to be a nephew of old Peleg, but who had
+never been known to be recognized by the crusty old farmer. He clerked
+in one of the general stores, of which Stanhope boasted several big ones,
+where everything, from a package of pins to a coffin could be purchased.</p>
+
+<p>"What's all the row about, Si?" demanded the acting scout master, as he
+seized hold of the clerk, to head him off; for Si seemed to be in a hurry
+as usual; he worked for a man who was a driver, and had to give an
+account of every minute of his time.</p>
+
+<p>"Ain't you heard nawthin' about it, Paul? Where you ben all this
+afternoon?" was the way the clerk answered one question with another.</p>
+
+<p>"Up in the woods with the scouts, doing stunts. But tell me what's gone
+wrong? Another robbery at the jewelry store; or has some one sneaked
+away with one of the coffins your house carries?" pursued Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"If anybody ever got off with a pin that didn't belong to 'em at our
+emporium, the fact ain't never been known. I've seen the boss chargin'
+customers with the cracker they eat when samplin'. We got orders to make
+light weight if they buy. But about this rumpus; they's a child lost!"
+said Si.</p>
+
+<p>"Who's child?" asked Paul, instantly deeply interested.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Boggs' little Willie. The Chief was just in to talk with him. He's
+all broken up over it, because you know, he uses a crutch, and can't help
+hunt."</p>
+
+<p>Paul knew Mr. Boggs assisted the post-master in his duties; and many a
+time had Paul chatted with the pretty little chap who played around the
+building while his father was assorting the incoming mails. Willie Boggs
+had always been a universal favorite. He was the sweetest child in all
+Stanhope, and everybody loved him.</p>
+
+<p>Paul was shocked at the news. Still, he hoped it might not be as bad as
+Si said.</p>
+
+<p>"Where did it happen? How do they know? Who saw little Willie last? What
+has been done to find him?" he fired at the clerk like the discharge of
+a Gatling gun.</p>
+
+<p>"Glory! expect me to tell the hull story, with my boss asettin' there
+inside the store, watchin' the clock, an' dockin' me for every minute I'm
+late? All right, who cares? And besides, Paul, p'raps that troop of yours
+might be useful in follerin' the tracks of poor little Willie," Si went
+on.</p>
+
+<p>"Where, when, how?" demanded the scout master, resolutely.</p>
+
+<p>"This mornin' it happened. Willie went with Annie Spooner to get some
+leaf mould in the edge of the woods, for her ma's flowers. She came back
+just at noon an' sed Willie had strayed away in the woods."</p>
+
+<p>"Did anybody go to look for Willie?" asked Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Three boys went out to bring him in. They hunted high an' low, but he
+wa'n't there. Then a dozen people set out to search the woods. Just now
+they come back to say Willie ain't to be found high nor low. That stirs
+the big chief some. He 'low he knows how the thing's to be did; and so
+he's agoin' to organize a hunt for the lost child. That's all. Now, let
+me get back to my slave tasks, Paul."</p>
+
+<p>"And night coming on," murmured Paul, as he looked out of the door to
+where people were assisting the crippled Mr. Boggs across the square in
+the direction of his nearby home, where his wife was no doubt waiting
+eagerly for some news of the missing darling.</p>
+
+<p>Si Growdy shot out of the door, and headed in the direction of the store
+where he gave his valuable services daily from seven in the morning until
+late in the evening, for a miserable pittance.</p>
+
+<p>Paul walked thoughtfully out of the post-office. He was tired from his
+exertions of the afternoon; but all that was immediately forgotten when
+he mentally pictured the weeping mother in that little cottage where the
+honeysuckle climbed above the door. Then he thought of the terror of the
+little fellow, wandering about in the great woods with night coming down,
+and all sorts of strange noises arising to chill his blood.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll do it!" exclaimed Paul presently; "the chance is too good to be
+lost. Why let Ted and Ward have the inside track? Just as soon as I can
+send word around we'll test our new system of bringing a bunch of the
+Fox scouts together. And then, if the boys are willing, we'll try and
+discover where Willie Boggs has wandered. It's a glorious opportunity to
+find out if what we've learned is worth having. Here goes then, to send
+out the call for help!"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXV" id="CHAPTER_XXV"></a>CHAPTER XXV</h2>
+
+<h3>A CAMP IN THE WOODS</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Why, Paul, what's all this hurry mean?"</p>
+
+<p>"I just want to get a few bites of supper, mother, and then rush off.
+I've sent out the call for a hurry meeting of the patrol. Some people
+call it the emergency signal. Every one of the scouts knows what it
+means. Those who can get out will be gathering here inside of half an
+hour."</p>
+
+<p>"But it must be something very unusual that urges you to do this. You've
+been on the go all afternoon, and I don't know that it is wise to bolt
+your supper in such a style, just to be ready to greet the boys when they
+arrive."</p>
+
+<p>"Mother, you don't understand. Father hasn't come back from his afternoon
+round of visits, has he? Then you couldn't possibly know," went on Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Know&mdash;what, my son?" questioned his mother, seeing that the boy was
+worked up more than usual.</p>
+
+<p>"We're going to organize a searching party. Perhaps some of the scouts
+may be smart enough to get on the track. It's poor little Willie Boggs,
+mother."</p>
+
+<p>"Searching party&mdash;Willie Boggs! Is the child lost?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and has been ever since before noon, in the big woods. You see it's
+just beginning to get dark now. Think of the poor little fellow wandering
+perhaps miles off in the woods. What if a storm should come up?" and
+Paul's manner told how he felt.</p>
+
+<p>"But there are no wild animals large enough to injure the child. The most
+he could suffer would be exposure to the night air; that and the fright
+of finding himself alone. Oh! it is a terrible thing though; and little
+Willie is all his poor father has left. It would kill him if anything
+happened," declared the good lady, whose heart was very tender.</p>
+
+<p>"Now you see why I'm in such a hurry to get a bite, mother. Every minute
+might count, for perhaps he is wandering further and further away. You'll
+let Jane get me something in a jiffy, won't you, now?" continued the
+eager lad.</p>
+
+<p>"Gladly, and help her too, after you have told me more. How do you boys
+expect to look for the child in the blackness of those woods?"</p>
+
+<p>"Every scout will carry a lantern, with which we have practiced signal
+wig-wagging until we are able to send messages back and forth. Besides
+that, we can form a long line across the woods, and comb nearly every bit
+of it, looking into every stack of brush and waste to see if Willie has
+lain down. And mother, think if we should just find him, how glad you'd
+be that we went out!"</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed, I should! I shall pray that you succeed, my boy. And it does you
+great credit that you are so earnest in your desire to help others. Sit
+down, and I'll wait on you myself," and Mrs. Morrison bustled away toward
+the kitchen as she spoke.</p>
+
+<p>As Paul was hastily devouring his supper, for he was as hungry as a wolf,
+who should come in but the doctor. And of course he had to be told;
+though Paul's mother took this task upon herself, giving the boy a chance
+to eat.</p>
+
+<p>Through the window Paul could see that already several fellows had
+gathered; and other lanterns were meanwhile coming like giant fireflies
+through the gathering gloom of the night.</p>
+
+<p>The prospect of bringing his scout troop into action for such a good
+cause was particularly pleasing to the boy who temporarily filled the
+office of leader. Spurred to do their very best by a recollection of the
+vows they had so recently taken, the members of Stanhope Troop might be
+depended on to bring credit to their organization.</p>
+
+<p>By the time Paul issued from the house there were a full dozen of his
+chums present. He was glad to see that all the original charter members
+forming the Red Fox patrol were on hand. They happened to live closer
+than others who had joined later; and boys of a particular community
+generally flock together.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately a great hubbub ensued. Those who did not know what all the
+fuss was about had to be "put wise," as William said. And Paul was called
+upon to explain his plans for the tracking of little Willie Boggs, who
+had become as a chip on the torrent, a wanderer in that mysterious
+forest, the end of which few Stanhope fellows had ever reached in their
+wanderings up over the hills.</p>
+
+<p>There were now fourteen present, and Paul determined not to wait for any
+more of the troop to come to time.</p>
+
+<p>"Fall in!"</p>
+
+<p>Down the street they marched, the lanterns flickering as they swung to
+and fro.</p>
+
+<p>No wonder people, rushing to the doors as shouts arose, began to ask
+eagerly if the lost child had been recovered.</p>
+
+<p>"It's the Boy Scouts; and they're going out to join the hunt!" some one
+shouted.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! they're about a mile behind Ted and his crowd!" jeered one fellow
+who must have had leanings toward the Slavin party; he had been detected
+in cheating so often in every game boys played that for months now he
+found himself left severely alone by decent fellows, and it was reported
+had applied for admission to the patrol Ward and Ted were getting up.</p>
+
+<p>Out of the town, and straight to the spot where the lost boy had last
+been seen Paul led his squad. He knew that it would be only a miracle if
+the many feet that had trod the ground over would have left any trace of
+the child's little shoes; but he still had hopes that the training some
+of his scouts possessed would bring more or less success.</p>
+
+<p>The unique sight of all those lanterns on the road had attracted many
+people, so that when they arrived at the spot Paul had in mind, fully
+thirty followed, a number of them boys who came only to make sport of the
+scouts.</p>
+
+<p>"Spread out, fellows," said the scout leader, quietly, "and examine every
+foot of ground. If you find a single impression of Willie's little shoe,
+give the signal, and I'll come; but hold your places every one."</p>
+
+<p>Immediately the scene became an animated one. Lanterns flashed hither
+and thither, swinging close to the ground; while young eyes searched
+diligently for a trace.</p>
+
+<p>In less than five minutes the signal sounded, and Paul hurried over to
+the one who had given the same. Jack was at his elbow, and between them
+they examined the mark, to ascertain in what quarter it pointed.</p>
+
+<p>Then the advance was taken up in that direction.</p>
+
+<p>Again came the thrilling cry that told of a new footprint that had been
+found.</p>
+
+<p>This time it was Wallace Carberry who had made the discovery. He talked
+so intelligently about it that Paul determined to keep him close by.
+Wallace would be a valuable advisor in case he and Jack disagreed at any
+time as to what the signs meant.</p>
+
+<p>So they went on for an hour, finding a footprint now and then to
+encourage them. These came at more frequent intervals when they got far
+enough away to avoid the trampled soil where the crowd had hunted all the
+afternoon.</p>
+
+<p>Those who had followed were now missing. They had seen that the scouts
+meant business, and did not care to wander so far from town. Hence, Paul
+presently found that he and his patrol had the woods almost to
+themselves.</p>
+
+<p>Several times though he had seen other lanterns wandering around, and
+guessed that these were carried by some of the Slavin crowd, also
+diligently combing the woods in the hope of being the lucky ones to
+find the missing boy.</p>
+
+<p>The chief of police and his party had gone off in an altogether different
+direction.</p>
+
+<p>"How long can we keep this up, Paul?" asked Jack, when they had been
+moving on for two hours, with no end in sight.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't know, but we ought to be able to put our best foot forward just
+as long as that little fellow does, don't you think?" replied the other,
+reproachfully.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, of course, and don't think I'm showing the white feather so early
+in the game. I've made up my mind never to go back until he's found. Why,
+we can camp right in the woods if it comes to it. And that would be a
+bully experience for every Fox in the bunch. Think of having to make beds
+out of branches! Ain't I glad some of us brought our camp hatchets
+along."</p>
+
+<p>"And Jack, it would leave us in a good position to take up the hunt again
+in the morning; for you see we'd be right on the ground where the little
+chap passed along. Suppose you call out again. He might hear, and
+answer."</p>
+
+<p>Jack obeyed, and repeated the name of Willie in a loud voice again and
+again. But only the echoes of the great woods answered. If the boy were
+within reach of that cheery hail he must be wrapped in the sleep of
+exhaustion, and unable to reply.</p>
+
+<p>Finally Jack ceased to call, for he was growing very husky.</p>
+
+<p>The search still went on with unabated zeal, each boy trying to vie with
+his mates in the endeavor to make some new discovery. Paul examined every
+faint print of that little foot, desirous of fixing the time it was made.
+Wallace joined him in this, and it was clearly shown that hours must have
+elapsed since the child passed that way.</p>
+
+<p>"Still, he may be within fifty yards of where we are. Let's keep at it as
+long as we can, and only camp when some are too tired to go on," declared
+Paul, greatly disappointed to think that they had thus far been baffled
+by hard luck.</p>
+
+<p>It was astonishing to see how far the little fellow had wandered; but
+fear always lends wings to the feet; and all the while Willie doubtless
+really believed he must be heading toward home.</p>
+
+<p>And Paul noted another fact that somehow gave him new interest in the
+enterprise. By degrees the trail had swung around to the left, as is
+nearly always the case when grown persons are lost; and the principle
+seemed to hold good in the case of even a child.</p>
+
+<p>In itself this was not strange; but Paul knew that if they kept on for
+another hour the chances were they would come upon the old mill pond,
+nestling in the valley. The fact caused him to remember his friend Mr.
+Pender; to once more mentally see that red motor with the khaki-colored
+top; and to picture the two strangers who had asked him so many
+questions.</p>
+
+<p>Was this really an accident, their being drawn out toward the farm of the
+unneighborly Sol Smithers; or might it turn out to be the working of
+destiny?</p>
+
+<p>He was aroused by a call that he had been expecting to hear for some time
+now.</p>
+
+<p>One of the scouts felt forced to admit that he was "all in." They had
+done manly work to keep up the tramp all this time, being but boys at
+best.</p>
+
+<p>It meant that camp must be made, and the balance of the night spent there
+in the woods, waiting for day to come to renew their search.</p>
+
+<p>Poor little Willie was destined then to pass still more hours, surrounded
+by the terrors of the black and unknown forest. But probably by this time
+he must be so exhausted through his unusual exertions that he was dead to
+the world in sleep; so it would not matter very much.</p>
+
+<p>Soon all was bustle as the fourteen lads began to make ready to spend a
+time in open camp. The sound of hatchets made pleasant music, as branches
+were cut, and beds made close to the fire that had been started.</p>
+
+<p>Some of the smaller lads were so utterly exhausted that they just dropped
+to the ground, and went to sleep. Paul and Jack passed around to see that
+these wornout fellows did not lie too near the blaze; and that they were
+fairly comfortable.</p>
+
+<p>In an hour's time it seemed as though every one were taking solid comfort
+after such rude fashion as could be devised. One of the boys had brought
+his camera along, keen to secure novel effects; and without warning he
+set off a flash that gave him a picture of the slumbering heroes on their
+lowly beds, that would be ever afterwards treasured as invaluable.</p>
+
+<p>At the brilliant illumination several sat up, and one even gave a cry of
+alarm, thinking perhaps that lightning had struck a tree close by; but
+with the coming of darkness again they settled back.</p>
+
+<p>But Paul could not sleep. He was only waiting until some of the more
+restless souls quieted down. Then he and Jack, together with Wallace,
+meant to again tackle the job of seeking for further imprints of those
+worn little shoes among the dead leaves, and in the soft soil under the
+giant trees.</p>
+
+<p>Somehow Paul believed that the hunt was bound to carry them to the very
+door of that farmhouse on the mill pond. He was induced to suspect this
+because the last time they had examined the small shoeprints, the mark of
+a much larger foot had appeared beside it; and after mature deliberation
+he and Wallace came to the conclusion that some man, walking through the
+forest, had discovered the trail of the child, <i>and was following it</i>!</p>
+
+<p>He looked around him. As near as he could tell every one of the tired
+scouts was slumbering soundly.</p>
+
+<p>So Paul silently arose, touching Jack on the shoulder, who immediately
+gave Wallace Carberry the signal.</p>
+
+<p>The three uttered no word, but moving softly back from the circle of
+firelight, carrying their almost exhausted lanterns, made ready to once
+more start out into the depths of the wood; with the lonely farmhouse now
+rented by the surly Sol Smithers just half a mile further to the north!</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXVI"></a>CHAPTER XXVI</h2>
+
+<h3>WHAT WOODCRAFT TOLD</h3>
+
+
+<p>"There it is again, Paul!"</p>
+
+<p>"As sure as you live we're being followed, boys!" and Wallace allowed his
+voice to rise just above a hoarse whisper when he made this energetic
+remark.</p>
+
+<p>The three were crouching in the bushes.</p>
+
+<p>As yet Paul had not caught a glimpse of the object which seemed to
+disturb both of his friends; but he was looking sharply now.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, yes, I do believe you are right, fellows," he said, calmly.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you take it mighty cool, I must say," declared Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Because I see no reason to get flurried over such a little thing, boys,"
+was what the leader replied.</p>
+
+<p>"Little thing, when you know Ted Slavin and a bunch of his toadies came
+up here to get all the glory they could out of this business! Don't you
+understand, Paul, that if they thought they could down us, they'd just as
+lief waylay us in the woods, and put an end to all our expectations?"</p>
+
+<p>This was a very unusual way of talking for Wallace, but it only went to
+show how the boy was worked up over the situation, and made nervous by
+the continuous strain.</p>
+
+<p>"But how do you know those moving figures are Ted and Ward, or even any
+of that crowd?" demanded Paul.</p>
+
+<p>The others hesitated, and finally Jack remarked:</p>
+
+<p>"Well, for a fact we don't know; but you remember we saw signs that even
+you declared proved what I'm saying&mdash;that some of those fellows have
+wandered as far as this."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, that's a fact. I'm not apt to forget it. Now, how many figures have
+you seen dodging along back there, just as if they didn't care to be
+seen&mdash;yet?"</p>
+
+<p>"How about it, Wallace?" queried Jack, doubtfully.</p>
+
+<p>"Two, anyhow; I'm sure of that," came the hesitating reply.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, at least two, Paul," the other echoed.</p>
+
+<p>"And we are three. That's one reason why I don't see any reason for
+getting nervous over the discovery," observed the leader, his voice now
+apparently showing a trace of humor that was bubbling up near the
+surface.</p>
+
+<p>"But where there are two there may be more, Paul?" objected Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, possibly eight or ten more," went on the calm leader.</p>
+
+<p>"Goodness! and you say there is no need of our worrying?" exclaimed
+Wallace.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, explain what you mean, old fellow. Eight or ten would give us a
+warm time don't you think?" demanded Wallace, gripping Paul's arm
+fiercely.</p>
+
+<p>"Hardly, if they were all sound asleep around a dying campfire, dead to
+the world," quoth Paul, chuckling now.</p>
+
+<p>But the others uttered low but vehement exclamations.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't you see what he means, Wallace?" asked Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Sure. What a couple of fools you and I were," came the scathing reply.</p>
+
+<p>"We've been followed by two of our own boys. They must have watched us
+crawl out of camp, and not wanting us to have all the fun, here they come
+creeping after us. What shall we do, Paul?" Jack queried in the other's
+ear; for the flitting figures were now very near.</p>
+
+<p>"Open our arms and welcome the recruits. If they're just bound to join
+forces with us, why should we make any kick. I'm glad of it."</p>
+
+<p>Then raising his voice a little, Paul continued:</p>
+
+<p>"Hey! there!"</p>
+
+<p>They could hear the murmur of voices. Evidently the two shadows were
+talking it over, and must have arrived at some quick conclusion, for
+presently same a hail.</p>
+
+<p>"Hello! Paul, Jack!"</p>
+
+<p>"It's Bobolink, for one," muttered Jack, immediately.</p>
+
+<p>"Then it's a sure thing William is tagging along," said Wallace.</p>
+
+<p>"Come on, both of you fellows. No danger!" called Paul, softly.</p>
+
+<p>After that assurance the shadows boldly advanced, and quickly joined the
+three who stood under the spreading oak.</p>
+
+<p>It proved just as Jack and Wallace had predicted, for the newcomers
+turned out to be William and Bobolink. They were chuckling, as though
+considering it a good joke.</p>
+
+<p>"Thought you'd give us the quiet sneak, and gobble all the glory
+yourselves, hey?" said the latter, as they bustled up; "but William and
+myself had it all fixed. We were on to your curves, all right."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," broke in William, just there; "didn't we see you with your heads
+together a lot, and wasn't we wise to what was in the wind. Bobolink was
+awake, and it was my turn to snooze. He gave me a kick in the seventh rib
+that made me think a comet had dropped on me. But we showed up game. Now,
+what's doing, fellows; and do we get a grab at the scout?"</p>
+
+<p>"If you both feel like trotting around a whole lot more, why you're just
+as welcome as a shower in spring," asserted Paul, promptly.</p>
+
+<p>"I should say, yes," declared Jack; "and if the whole bunch could stand
+the racket we wouldn't have crept away like we did. But most of the poor
+fellows are all in, and dead tired, and we thought it would be a shame to
+invite them to hike some more."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you bring your glim along?" asked Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Our lanterns? Well, William didn't want to, but I insisted. I knew that
+if we missed you fellows, and lost ourselves in the bush, they'd come in
+mighty fine for company," returned Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"Then let's light up. After that we'll spread out, and try to find the
+trail," with which remark Paul set the example.</p>
+
+<p>Presently five lanterns glowed like giant fireflies.</p>
+
+<p>"Think it lies in this direction, Paul?" asked William.</p>
+
+<p>"I'm sure of it. After that man's track came alongside the print of the
+little chap's shoe, there was no more wandering about; but it struck
+straight ahead. That told me the trail was heading for a house," came the
+ready reply.</p>
+
+<p>"A house. Say, is there any other place up here but the old farm
+alongside the mill pond? I don't seem to remember any," remarked
+Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"And that's just where I expect we'll bring up sooner or later," observed
+Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Then why not put for the old place at full speed right away?" suggested
+William, always impetuous.</p>
+
+<p>"To do that we'd have to drop the trail again. And besides, what does
+an hour, or even two of them, matter in the end? Slow but sure is the
+successful scout's motto, boys. Hello I look here, what's this?"</p>
+
+<p>Paul thrust his lantern down close to the ground. Bending over to look,
+the others could see the plain impression of a child's little shoe. It
+was heading due north, just as many similar tracks had been of late.</p>
+
+<p>"Now if you look at this you'll see it's nearly crushed out by the big
+print of a man's foot; while just beyond the child has stepped into the
+impression made by the man. That can mean only one thing; the two were
+going on in company, and for a minute he let go the little one's hand, so
+that first the child was in front, and then behind."</p>
+
+<p>"I guess you're right, Paul. But see here, what does this mean? The small
+track has dropped out altogether," remarked William.</p>
+
+<p>"That is where the big fellow picks the boy up in his arms, and is
+carrying him," said Wallace, before Paul could answer.</p>
+
+<p>"Right you are, that is just what happened. To tell the truth I don't
+know why he didn't do that before. He must have been toting some bundle
+along, and couldn't well carry the boy too. Come back a bit. I want to
+look around," and Paul retraced his steps until he had reached the spot
+where a confusion of tracks met his gaze.</p>
+
+<p>He followed the man's trail a few paces, and found himself under a tree.
+Raising his lantern he carefully examined the bark of the trunk, and
+finding several fresh scratches, pursued his investigations still higher.</p>
+
+<p>One accommodating limb grew rather low. In fact a man could, by reaching
+up his arms, clasp it easily; and that was what Paul believed had been
+done.</p>
+
+<p>"Give me a push, somebody; and then hand up my lantern," he said,
+clasping his arms about the tree as well as he was able.</p>
+
+<p>Ten seconds later William was handing him up the light; after which Paul
+began to ascend slowly, looking about him as though constantly on the
+watch for signs that would tell another had preceded him.</p>
+
+<p>"All right; it's here. I'm coming down, fellows," he soon called out.</p>
+
+<p>Reaching that friendly lower limb he held something in view.</p>
+
+<p>"Take hold of this, Bobolink, and handle it carefully, because we don't
+know what's in the package. It might be dynamite!" he remarked.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I hope not!" exclaimed the one in whose arms the bundle reposed; and
+he did not look any too happy at the prospect ahead.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't be silly," said Paul, as he dropped beside them. "But whatever
+it may be, we might as well hide it in a new place. Then if the fellow
+should come back here to get it, he's going to meet with a
+disappointment, that's all."</p>
+
+<p>"But what d'ye think it is?" argued the one who clasped the large package
+in his arms, though with evident reluctance.</p>
+
+<p>"That is none of our business just now. It may be honest enough, and we'd
+get into a peck of trouble if we peeked. So let's just chuck it in some
+hollow stump as we go along, and muffle our trail behind us so he can't
+find where we put it. Later on I think I know some one who will be glad
+to look into what it contains."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps I do too," remarked Jack; and the two chums looked at each
+other, with mutual astonishment marked on their faces.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh!" remarked Paul, "are you on, too? Did he tell you the secret?"</p>
+
+<p>"I happened to pick up an envelope he dropped, and wondered whose it was;
+so I went around, asking. He laughed when I came to him, and told me
+a little bit of news that surprised me. But Paul, he asked me not to
+breathe a word, even to you. That was a mean joke, when you knew all
+along," Jack complained.</p>
+
+<p>"Remember the red car on the road, and the two men in it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! did they have anything to do with his coming up here? Yes, now that
+I think of it, you were pretty much excited over that same red car. You
+guessed something then, didn't you, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>"He had asked me to watch out for a red car with a khaki-colored top,
+that might have two men in it, one of them owning to a glass eye."</p>
+
+<p>"Good gracious!" said Jack; "that tall chap did have a bogus eye, for a
+fact. And when you left me in town you hurried around to the post-office
+to find Mr. Pender, didn't you? I see it all now. He never came home for
+supper, as far as I know. I reckon he must have got a rig of some sort,
+and put out for the mill pond. But what about Solus Smithers&mdash;they asked
+after him, you know?"</p>
+
+<p>Paul pointed to the marks on the ground.</p>
+
+<p>"Unless I'm wrong those are his tracks. I noticed that he had big feet at
+the time he came out and ordered us to clear away from the pond, and
+threatened us with his gun. Yes, perhaps he got home to find visitors
+waiting for him," Paul observed, just as though he could read all these
+things from the trail.</p>
+
+<p>"Then we go on, do we?" asked Bobolink, eagerly.</p>
+
+<p>He had been listening to what passed between his two comrades, and while
+it was partly Greek to him, enough of the truth filtered through to give
+him a creepy sensation, as though cold water were being poured down his
+back.</p>
+
+<p>Bobolink was no coward though, and while he shivered it was more through
+a delicious frame of mind over the chance of an adventure than because
+he felt fear.</p>
+
+<p>"Straight on, as long as these lanterns hold out. I see yours has begun
+to flicker already, William. There, it's puffed out; and my own isn't
+near as strong a light as it was."</p>
+
+<p>Paul seemed to be a true prophet, for inside of five minutes the lanterns
+"gave up the ghost," the last to expire being that of Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"What's doing now?" demanded Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Gather up all the matches in the crowd. Then I'll strike them one by
+one," was Paul's immediate response.</p>
+
+<p>This emergency torch lasted for a little while. Finally the last match
+was gone, and still they were some distance away from the mill pond.</p>
+
+<p>"Listen," said William, suddenly; with a thrill in his voice; "whatever
+do you suppose that is?"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXVII"></a>CHAPTER XXVII</h2>
+
+<h3>TED FINDS SOMETHING</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Sure it wasn't an owl?" asked Paul, when a full minute had passed away,
+without their hearing a repetition of the sound that had reached the ears
+of his comrade.</p>
+
+<p>"Didn't sound like it. I kind of thought it was somebody calling for
+help!" said Bobolink, quivering with the suspense caused by the
+situation.</p>
+
+<p>They stood in a group, listening eagerly. The night wind stirred the tops
+of the tall forest trees softly, and even this gentle sound boomed on
+their strained nerves like the strokes of a bass drum.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! there! Didn't you hear it that time?" whispered Bobolink.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess we did," replied Paul; "and you're right in saying it is
+somebody shouting. But all the same I don't feel sure it was a call for
+help. Let's remember, fellows, that Ted and his crowd must be somewhere
+about up here. And you know from past experiences what dodges he's up to
+when he wants to play a trick on anybody."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you mean he'd like to draw us off by shouting that way, while some
+of his fellows went along to the farmhouse, and got the lost boy?" asked
+William.</p>
+
+<p>"That would be just like Ted. He's as full of tricks as an egg is of
+meat," Jack took it upon himself to say at this juncture.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, what are we going to do about it, boys?" asked Wallace.</p>
+
+<p>"I leave it to Paul; whatever he says ought to be good enough for me,"
+replied Wallace.</p>
+
+<p>"And me," came from the others without hesitation.</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks, fellows. I hope that my plan will prove the best after all. But
+don't blame me if I should make a mistake. Let's head for the road, which
+I take it ought to be somewhere over yonder," remarked Paul, pointing
+through the darkness.</p>
+
+<p>"The road, eh? I see, you mean that once we get on that we'll have it
+easy all the way to the pond. That suits me all right. Count William in."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, seeing that our lanterns are out, and not a match in the crowd, I
+guess the sooner we get our feet planted on the highway, the better for
+our noses. I've barked mine already against a tree, and another dose will
+spoil my classic beauty," grunted Bobolink, rubbing tenderly at the spot
+in question.</p>
+
+<p>"Then come along, the rest of you," said Paul, starting off.</p>
+
+<p>"Seems to me it's getting lighter," announced Wallace, presently.</p>
+
+<p>"Mebbe our eyes are used to it, that's what," Bobolink remarked.</p>
+
+<p>"Mine are closing up right fast, I warn you, fellers," said William; "and
+before long it's going to be a case of the blind leading the blind. That
+branch took me across the face. Hey! ain't that the same old shout?"</p>
+
+<p>"Sounds like it; but much nearer," returned Paul, with a vein of
+uncertainty in his voice, as if he might be commencing to doubt whether
+they were doing the right thing in paying no attention to the calls.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I guess I know what it means," remarked Jack; "I've been trying to
+make it out all along. That's sure a different voice. Some of Ted's crowd
+have got separated, and they're just trying to get together again. You've
+heard quail calling, after being flushed and scattered. How, Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps you've struck it, Jack. Anyway, we are on the road here, and had
+better push straight along to the pond first."</p>
+
+<p>"Right enough," uttered Bobolink, as he broke through a cordon of brush,
+and jumped out on the highway, though it might be only an apology for a
+road after all, being scantily used; "and after that experience it's
+going to be something big that drags me into the woods again."</p>
+
+<p>The little group stood there for a minute to recover their wind, which
+had been more or less exhausted in the last desperate push through the
+dark woods.</p>
+
+<p>"Ready to move on, fellows?" demanded Paul, who had apparently not
+changed his mind, and was more than ever bent on covering the last lap
+lying between themselves and the pond.</p>
+
+<p>Jack and Wallace fell in on either side, and the march was begun. Since
+the other pair did not wish to be left behind, they were forced to
+accompany themselves to the movements of the trio.</p>
+
+<p>Thus they walked perhaps a full hundred yards along the winding road,
+with the stars showing overhead, and the black mysterious woods flanking
+them on either side.</p>
+
+<p>The shouts had apparently ceased; at least none had been heard since the
+five lads reached open territory.</p>
+
+<p>Again it was Bobolink who caught a sound of some sort.</p>
+
+<p>"Tell me again I'm hearing owls, will you, fellows? If that ain't a
+gasoline wagon climbing a hill ahead there I'm off my guess," he
+whispered.</p>
+
+<p>"Chug! chug!" came the plain sound, as the air current veered more toward
+the point toward which they were heading.</p>
+
+<p>"I know that hill," Paul observed, as if talking to himself; "it's just
+this side of the mill pond. That means the car is coming this way. The
+two gentlemen are separating themselves from their dear friend, Solus
+Smithers. Why, I wonder? Would Mr. Pender have anything to do with it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Wow! did you see that?" gasped Bobolink, proving that his plaint about
+his eyes closing up could hardly be based on solid ground.</p>
+
+<p>"Somebody struck a match, and it went out! Whoever it is, he's on the
+road just ahead of us, fellows!" whispered Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Back up into the scrub here. Quick! for perhaps he's got another match!"
+said Paul, following up his words by instant action.</p>
+
+<p>They managed to cower down in the brush, though Bobolink muttered
+something to the effect that he had received another jab in the
+neighborhood of his wretched eyes.</p>
+
+<p>"Look! he's done it, Paul, just as you said he would!" whispered Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, he's shielding it from the breeze till it gets strong. There&mdash;well,
+what d'ye think of that, fellers?" gasped William.</p>
+
+<p>"It's Ted!" muttered Wallace, staring hard at the figure that seemed to
+be huddled up on the road a little distance away.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you suppose the silly goose is doing on his knees?" came from
+Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"He's found something, and he's looking at it. See, now he's managed to
+open it up. Seems to me like a leather bag, boys," Wallace managed to
+wedge in with.</p>
+
+<p>"Just what it is, old cat eyes. A hand bag! Now, however did that thing
+happen to be lying there in the road? Nobody ever comes up here but
+Solus, and he isn't the one to own a bag like that."</p>
+
+<p>"The red car," said Paul, as Jack seemed to hesitate.</p>
+
+<p>"That's it, as sure as you live. Dropped out of the machine; and by
+jinks! the fellers are comin' back to look for it. Never missed it till
+Sol got home!" his chum declared.</p>
+
+<p>All this talk between the five boy scouts was carried on in the lowest of
+whispers. The sound of their voices would not have carried twenty feet;
+and the kneeling Ted was several times that distance away.</p>
+
+<p>Besides, he seemed to be so fascinated by what he had discovered in the
+leather grip that he had eyes and ears for nothing else just then.</p>
+
+<p>"The motor is coming closer!" remarked Wallace, as the sound of the
+engine was borne more distinctly to their ears.</p>
+
+<p>"Sure. She's just at the top of the rise, and now it's down-grade. Reckon
+she'll be here in a minute. Push back further, fellows."</p>
+
+<p>"Look! Ted hears it now! He's jumped up! Seems like he just don't know
+what to do, cut and run with the bag, or wait till the car gets there.
+Hey! watch that, will you?" gasped William.</p>
+
+<p>"He threw the bag as far as he could into the woods!" said Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"That looks like he meant to try and keep it," suggested Jack; "I imagine
+that the leather grip holds something that took Ted's fancy. But all the
+same I reckon it isn't going to be easy sledding for him. Will he run,
+fellows?"</p>
+
+<p>"He's debating that same question now; but it's too late. He waited just
+half a minute too long," Paul remarked, as a sudden flash of dazzling
+light shot around a bend a short distance ahead, and the red car with the
+khaki-colored top came into view, making fairly fast time.</p>
+
+<p>They could dimly see the inmates apparently surveying the road ahead with
+the utmost eagerness, as though anxious to make a discovery. The loss of
+that bag must have rather upset their plans, and given them a jolt.</p>
+
+<p>Every one of the five hidden scouts crouched low, so that their faces
+might not be discovered by that fierce white glow.</p>
+
+<p>Plainly to their ears was borne the shouts of the men in the machine, as
+they discovered the figure of Ted on the road. The Stanhope bully had
+evidently made up his mind that the bag was well worth struggling for,
+and that he must make some sort of a fight to retain possession of it.</p>
+
+<p>Paul could guess what his plan of operations would be. He had seen Ted
+play innocent more than once before, when caught in the act of doing some
+mean thing. And as a rule the fellow could carry out the game fairly
+well.</p>
+
+<p>But he was up against a different proposition now; and these keen-eyed
+men were not apt to be hoodwinked so easily as a parcel of schoolboys.</p>
+
+<p>Ted stood there, looking at the car that was bearing down upon him.</p>
+
+<p>No doubt he had assumed the innocent air of a rustic, and tried to make
+himself appear as stupid as he could. The two men in the red car were no
+longer calling, for they had seen that the boy on the road showed no
+signs of wanting to run.</p>
+
+<p>As they bore down upon the spot the car slowed up, and came to a full
+stop within a few yards of the waiting Ted. Every scout lying in the
+screen of bushes held his breath as he listened to catch what was going
+to follow.</p>
+
+<p>"Say, gimme a ride, mister?"</p>
+
+<p>That was Ted speaking, before either of the men could say the first word.
+Indeed they were too busy clambering out of the car to surround him, and
+cut off any chance of escape, to think of anything else.</p>
+
+<p>Without answering they bore down on Ted, and he found himself confronted
+by two eager faces, while a rough hand clutched his arm.</p>
+
+<p>"He ain't got it, Brad!" exclaimed the shorter of the pair, as though
+disappointed over something.</p>
+
+<p>"Hey, what'd you do with it, son?" demanded the taller traveler, looking
+furiously at Ted, though pretending to speak gently.</p>
+
+<p>"With what, boss? I ain't got nothin' that belongs to you, sure I ain't!"
+whimpered the boy; and Paul came near to chuckling at the way Ted put on
+the agony.</p>
+
+<p>"We lost a leather bag out of the car. I saw it after we turned into this
+here twisting side road just back a piece. We've looked over every foot
+between here and the mill pond, and ain't seen it. I'm going to ask you
+again, son, what did you do with it?"</p>
+
+<p>The man did not threaten, as yet, but there was something deep down in
+his voice that seemed to tell of all sorts of terrible things that might
+happen to the boy unless he came to time, and confessed.</p>
+
+<p>But at any rate Ted was game. His covetous nature had been aroused by
+something he had glimpsed inside of that same bag; and he did not mean to
+give it up unless pushed to the last resort.</p>
+
+<p>"Ain't seen no bag, mister, 'deed an' I ain't," he whimpered; "I got a
+lantern here, an' I was ahuntin' a little boy that was lost from home.
+Lots of other fellers in the woods adoin' that same. But my light give
+out. Then I struck this here road. I'm clean tired out, mister, and I'd
+like to get a ride home, if so be you're goin' my way. A bag, mister?
+Sure I ain't knowin' nawthin' about no bag. Cross my heart if I do. Gimme
+a ride to Stanhope, mister, please!"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXVIII"></a>CHAPTER XXVIII</h2>
+
+<h3>FORCED TO TELL</h3>
+
+
+<p>The two men looked at each other.</p>
+
+<p>Apparently they hardly knew whether to believe Ted or not. Paul saw them
+put their heads close together, as though exchanging confidences. Then
+the tall fellow once more whirled on Ted, who had been standing on one
+leg, with a most forlorn look upon his face.</p>
+
+<p>"We both think that you lie, son," said the man who was minus one of his
+optics, as he thrust his face close down to that of Ted, as though he
+would look straight into his heart; but this was something that no one
+else had ever succeeded in doing, and the attempt did not prove very
+successful.</p>
+
+<p>"Tell him who we are, Brad," growled the shorter of the twain, who looked
+angry enough to devour the unfortunate Ted.</p>
+
+<p>So the one called Brad took something out of his coat pocket that made
+a peculiar jingling noise, and held it up before the boy.</p>
+
+<p>"D'ye see them, son? We call 'em bracelets, and they're meant to go on
+the wrists of criminals. D'ye understand now? We're officers of the law,
+and we've just made a grand haul. But some of the evidence has slipped
+away from us. It's in that same bag you picked up on this here road.
+Now, don't you dare deny it again, or we'll take you into town with these
+pretty toys clasped on your wrists. I'm going to give you another chance
+to tell us, son. Where did you put that bag?"</p>
+
+<p>Ted winced and whined. He showed all the signs of injured innocence.
+Surely he must have made up his mind quickly that the contents of the
+bag were well worth taking all sorts of chances for.</p>
+
+<p>"Ain't seen no bag. Sure I'd be on'y too glad to tell you, mister, if I
+had. All I wants to do is to go home. I'm tired, an' nigh sick with all
+this huntin' for that kid," he whimpered.</p>
+
+<p>The man suddenly pounced on him, and despite Ted's struggles and
+entreaties, he seemed to succeed in accomplishing his purpose. At any
+rate the concealed scouts heard a snap; and when Ted reeled back he was
+holding his two hands close together in a suspicious way, and staring at
+something that seemed to be in the nature of a connecting link.</p>
+
+<p>"Now you are in for it," said the tall man, shaking his head
+threateningly as he stood over the prisoner; "we'll have to take you to
+town, and put you in the lockup as an accessory after the fact. D'ye hear
+that, you young fool? And all because you refuse to help honest officers
+of the law in their legitimate business. Why, you may get ten years at
+hard labor, yes, twenty. Better tell all you know, and perhaps we'll let
+you off."</p>
+
+<p>"You can do anything you like to me, mister, but I ain't agoin' to say
+what I don't know. Ain't seen any bag of no kind. Cross my heart if I
+have. I'm willin' to help you hunt for it, even if I am dog tired. Don't
+you believe me, mister? Sure, I wouldn't lie to you. What would I be
+wantin' with a bag; we got plenty at my house. Ted Slavin's my name, and
+I live in Stanhope. Gimme a ride, mister, if you're goin' that way, won't
+you?"</p>
+
+<p>Again the two men talked together, while Ted watched them out of the
+corner of his eye. He might even have tried to run but the fact that
+his hands were fastened together with that steel chain prevented such
+a thing.</p>
+
+<p>Once more they turned upon him, and the tall man pointing down,
+thundered:</p>
+
+<p>"You've been kneeling in the dirt!"</p>
+
+<p>Ted glanced down at his trousers involuntarily; but even then he was not
+taken off his guard.</p>
+
+<p>"I fell ever so many times after my lantern went out. See here, mister,
+how I scraped the skin off my hand. That's the honest truth I'm givin'
+you!" he cried.</p>
+
+<p>Undoubtedly it was, but all the same the men showed no signs of yielding.</p>
+
+<p>The taller one, called Brad by his companion, deliberately detached one
+of the lamps from the car. With this he bent down to examine the road.</p>
+
+<p>"He'll see the marks of the bag!" whispered Bobolink to Paul.</p>
+
+<p>"Watch him while I scurry along the road a bit, to see if he left it,"
+was what the man said, and then moved down toward the spot where the
+five boys lay in hiding.</p>
+
+<p>When he came opposite them they hardly dared to breathe, lest his keen
+ears catch the sound, and he pounce upon them.</p>
+
+<p>But he went past, scouring the road closely, and looking for some sign of
+the missing bag. They saw him pass on, and the light grew dim. Meanwhile
+Ted sat down on a log, and seemed to be very dejected and forlorn. Once
+or twice when the shorter man was not looking Paul saw him glance around,
+as though sizing up the chances for a sudden plunge into the forest.</p>
+
+<p>"He's coming again," said Bobolink; and the brilliant glow from down the
+road bore evidence of the truth of this remark which was whispered in
+Paul's ear.</p>
+
+<p>Brad walked hastily back, and soon rejoined his companion, with whom he
+talked earnestly for a minute.</p>
+
+<p>"Get up!" he said, turning to Ted, and giving the boy a kick that made
+him climb to his feet hurriedly, groaning with pain.</p>
+
+<p>"Bring him along into the woods, Wash!" the tall man continued, turning
+aside.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! what are you goin' to do?" cried Ted, in real or pretended terror,
+as he caught hold of the man's coat, and sought to hold him back.</p>
+
+<p>"You'll find out right soon, son. Before we're done with you perhaps
+you'll wish you'd told us about that ere bag us the beginning. We're just
+going to make it warm for a feller of your size. This night air has made
+you too cold to speak up; but we'll fix all that, I reckon; we know how
+to do it, don't we, Wash?"</p>
+
+<p>"Do we? Well, I should smile we did. But they's no need of our goin' far,
+old man. This here is a right smart tree, and looks like it might answer.
+'Sides, they seems to be lots o' loose wood lyin' 'bout this part!"</p>
+
+<p>Paul felt a chill pass over him. Could it be possible these rascals meant
+to torture Ted until he told; or were they just trying to frighten him?
+If it came to the worst they just could not stand by and see such a thing
+done.</p>
+
+<p>Ted, of course, was considerably worked up when he heard what the shorter
+fellow said. It was so very plain he could not mistake the meaning.</p>
+
+<p>"Say, mister, you wouldn't go to hurt a poor feller what never done you
+no harm, now, would you? Wish I on'y knowed where I could find a bag; I'd
+get it for you like hot cakes. Please don't smoke me. I ain't a ham,
+mister, an' I never done you any harm. Let me go, won't you? I'll never
+come up here again, sure I won't. And I'll promise to bring you all the
+bags in our house, mister."</p>
+
+<p>Paying no attention to his pleadings and his groanings the men stood Ted
+up against a tree. Then the rope brought from the car was wrapped around
+both boy and tree several times.</p>
+
+<p>"Get busy, Wash, and scrape up all the dead leaves you can find. Then
+begin and pile up some brush and stuff. Oh! yes, it's a cold night, but
+we ain't agoin' to let a poor critter what's lost his way, suffer. Here
+you, stop that snifflin'. Time enough to beller after it begins to hurt."</p>
+
+<p>He struck Ted again in the face, making his nose bleed. Paul had crept
+out from the brush and commenced to approach the spot. He knew that the
+other four scouts were probably close on his heels.</p>
+
+<p>Every boy's heart beat like a trip hammer with excitement. They bit their
+lower lips to keep from shouting out loud, such was the strain upon them.
+But not one had the least thought of turning back. With such a leader,
+how could they?</p>
+
+<p>The shorter ruffian was scratching right merrily among the dead leaves,
+making all the noise he could, so as to impress the prisoner with a sense
+of his perilous condition. While he worked he kept talking, half to
+himself, and no doubt uttering all sorts of terrible threats calculated
+further to alarm the boy.</p>
+
+<p>"We forgot one thing, Wash," said the other man, suddenly.</p>
+
+<p>"What was that?" asked the one on his knees.</p>
+
+<p>"To search the varmint. I might as well do it right now, while you go on
+getting his jacket warmer ready."</p>
+
+<p>At first Ted tried to make all the resistance possible; but this only
+brought quick punishment in the shape of ugly blows and threats. So Ted
+had to stand and allow the other to have his way.</p>
+
+<p>A minute later the man uttered a loud cry.</p>
+
+<p>"Look here, Wash, what did I say?"</p>
+
+<p>He was holding something up. Seen in the light from the lamp belonging
+to the red car it looked very much like a fat wad of greenbacks, tied
+together with a cord.</p>
+
+<p>Wash sprang up, and bent over to examine the object in the light. Then he
+laughed harshly.</p>
+
+<p>"It's the boodle, all right, Brad. He found the bag, sure as thunder! And
+now he's <i>got</i> to tell, or it's all up with him!"</p>
+
+<p>Both men turned furiously on the bound boy. Ted had held out against all
+odds up to this critical point; but of course he must admit himself
+beaten, now that they had found the evidence in his pocket.</p>
+
+<p>Nearer crept Paul, with his chums tagging close at his heels. And nobody
+thought to look beyond the line of brilliant light cast by the lamp which
+rested on the ground at the foot of the tree. Fortunately its powerful
+rays were directed away from the quarter occupied by the creeping Boy
+Scouts.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, I reckon you're agoin' to tell all you know about that ere bag,
+son?" said Brad, in a terrible voice.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess I'll have to, mister. I was just holdin' out to see if so be you
+was what you says. Now I know you be, and I'm ready to tell the hull
+thing if you'll only let me go free. I don't want to be smoked, just yet
+anyway," Ted whined.</p>
+
+<p>"You did find the bag, then?" demanded the other.</p>
+
+<p>"Yep, that's what I did."</p>
+
+<p>"And took this wad of dough out of it?" pursued the other, savagely.</p>
+
+<p>"It looked too nice to throw away, so I cabbaged it, mister. Wisht I
+hadn't now."</p>
+
+<p>"What became of the bag after you took this out&mdash;go on, now, and tell,
+or&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I throwed that away, mister, right over here in the woods somewhere.
+If you look around you'll find her close by. Please let me go when you
+dig her out!" said Ted, really alarmed now for his safety.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIX" id="CHAPTER_XXIX"></a>CHAPTER XXIX</h2>
+
+<h3>THE CAPTURE</h3>
+
+
+<p>Paul knew where that bag was.</p>
+
+<p>By the strangest chance in the world he was kneeling alongside it just
+then. In creeping forward so as to draw closer to the scene of action,
+and avoid the rays of light cast by the car lamp, he had happened to put
+his hand on some object that felt soft to the touch; and he guessed what
+it must be.</p>
+
+<p>What if the tall man came straight toward that spot, looking for the
+missing object? Dared they rise up and defy these two scoundrels? If some
+one cast Ted loose would he join forces with them, and make common cause
+against the ruffians?</p>
+
+<p>Judging from what he knew about the fellow, from past experiences, Paul
+thought no dependence could be placed on Ted. As likely as not if his
+hands were free, he would seize the very first chance to snatch up the
+bag and scamper off, leaving the others to bear the brunt of the men's
+anger.</p>
+
+<p>But perhaps they would not have to face the tall chap just yet. He seemed
+ready to start into the bushes across the way first, taking the lamp with
+him.</p>
+
+<p>"Keep on piling up the trash, Wash. Get him surrounded good and plenty.
+For if we don't run across that bag mighty soon we're bound to make it
+warm for this Smart Aleck. But don't put a match to the heap till I get
+back. I wanter see the fun, you understand."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! mister, it's just like I was tellin' you. I stood in the road and
+guv the bag a throw when I see your light over the top of the hill. She
+jest <i>must</i> be close around here somewhere," Ted wailed.</p>
+
+<p>"If Brad finds her, all well an' good; but if he don't&mdash;well, you'll have
+a sweet time soon, that's all," growled the shorter man, still on his
+knees, and engaged in scraping more leaves together.</p>
+
+<p>"If you on'y would let me, I'd stand on the road jest where I was when
+I throwed the old bag. Then you could figger where she landed. Let me
+loose, won't you, mister? I told you the truth this time; and you're sure
+to find that bag. They'll be wonderin' what's become of me at home, sure
+they will. I got a mother, and she thinks a heap of me, she does. You
+wouldn't break her heart, mister, by smokin' a poor boy?"</p>
+
+<p>"Aw! dry up! you fooled us once, but you can't do it no more. It's the
+bag, or your hide gets a singein', my fine feller. That'll do for you,
+now."</p>
+
+<p>The man had a temper as short as his stature; and Ted dared not stir him
+up any further. So he hung there alongside the tree, watching the glow
+of the lamp further up the road.</p>
+
+<p>And as he stood in this disconsolate position, he suddenly became aware
+that something was taking place just beyond the kneeling Wash.</p>
+
+<p>Perhaps, had his hands not been so snugly fastened together with that
+horrid steel chain, Ted might have tried to rub his eyes, under the
+impression that they were deceiving him; for he saw a face in the dim
+light, a face that looked wonderfully like that of Paul Morrison.</p>
+
+<p>Some foolish boys would have been so thrilled by the prospect of relief
+that they must have called out, and thus betrayed the creeping rescuers.
+Ted chanced to be built on different lines. He stared and blinked, but
+gave utterance to no sound.</p>
+
+<p>He saw other moving figures close on the heels of the leader. Then he
+understood that Paul was not alone, but some of his Red Fox patrol must
+be in attendance.</p>
+
+<p>Closer still crept the newcomers. If Ted's heart ever warmed toward a
+living being it surely ought just then; when these lads, whom he was
+wont to regard as his bitter rivals, and enemies in everything at school,
+took such chances simply because they could not see a Stanhope boy in
+trouble.</p>
+
+<p>Wash kept muttering to himself as he worked. The rustle of the leaves,
+and the crackling of the brush as he dragged it forward, kept him from
+hearing such sounds as might have been made by the tenderfeet scouts, who
+had not yet learned just how to do these things as might an Indian or an
+experienced woodsman.</p>
+
+<p>Paul was on his knees now, and still rising, with Jack a close second.</p>
+
+<p>They were not three feet behind the man who labored. A single plunge
+forward must send them full upon his back.</p>
+
+<p>Some thought of his companion possibly crossed the mind of Wash just
+then; for he suddenly turned his head.</p>
+
+<p>Of course he could not help but see what was behind him.</p>
+
+<p>"Now!" whooped Bobolink and William in a breath.</p>
+
+<p>There was a simultaneous movement on the part of the five lads. Wash,
+taken by surprise, could not get up on his feet. He had his hands full of
+brush at the moment, and this also handicapped him about making any
+effective use of the weapons Nature gave him.</p>
+
+<p>He had just time to shout the name of his companion when the avalanche
+struck him, and he was bowled over as neatly as ever a football tackle
+got his man.</p>
+
+<p>Paul knew that they could easily manage this one fellow. The trouble
+was Wash did not happen to be alone. When the tall ruffian came dashing
+quickly to the spot there was no telling what he might not do.</p>
+
+<p>"Hold him down, you twins. Don't let him break loose. The rest of you
+follow me!"</p>
+
+<p>Even while speaking Paul scrambled to his feet. He heard the mad patter
+of feet as Brad came dashing toward the spot, shouting in his excitement,
+and doubtless believing that the prisoner had turned upon his captor.</p>
+
+<p>"Let me loose, Paul; quick, twist this rope around the tree!" shrilled
+Ted, who saw a chance to escape the punishment that had been hovering
+over his head.</p>
+
+<p>Paul caught the end of the rope. Four times did he dash around that tree,
+in about as many seconds; then Ted, finding his bonds loose, squirmed
+free.</p>
+
+<p>But Brad was now on hand, filled with astonishment and fury. Whichever
+way he turned the rays of his car lamp he seemed to discover fresh moving
+figures. The woods seemed to be full of enemies. They must be hiding
+behind each and every tree, ready to pounce upon him.</p>
+
+<p>Already he could see that his partner was writhing on the ground, held
+down by an unknown number of strangers. In his eyes it might be these
+advancing figures each and every one must be a deputy sheriff, eager to
+have a hand in his arrest. So terror makes cowards of the best of men;
+and Brad turned to flee.</p>
+
+<p>"Surrender!" shouted a voice behind him.</p>
+
+<p>It was Paul calling out, but just then the alarmed culprit could not tell
+the voice of a boy from that of a hyena. Some one had called upon him to
+surrender, and the dread word conjured up all sorts of terrible
+conditions.</p>
+
+<p>Into the darkness of the woods he would have plunged, regardless of the
+shock that must follow a collision with an unseen tree. But he did not
+go far. A figure arose straight in his path, and opened a pair of arms,
+into the embrace of which the fleeing rascal ran.</p>
+
+<p>Before the lamp fell to the ground and went out Paul had one glimpse of
+a face.</p>
+
+<p>"It's Mr. Pender, fellows! Brad's nabbed!" he could not help shouting.</p>
+
+<p>Jack, realizing the need of more light, instantly flew over to where the
+car was standing, and detached the second lamp. With this he hastened
+back. Wash was still struggling; but the two boys had him on his face,
+where his superior strength was of little avail; and were sitting on him
+to keep him quiet.</p>
+
+<p>When they rushed over to where Mr. Pender had been seen struggling with
+the taller of the ruffians, they found that he had subdued Brad; for the
+other was glaring down at a pair of steel bracelets which outshone those
+he had so pleasantly snapped on the wrists of poor Ted.</p>
+
+<p>There was no more fight in him.</p>
+
+<p>When the other man had been treated to a similar present, they were
+allowed to sit upon the ground and exchange words of doleful regret,
+while Mr. Pender went the rounds, and gravely shook hands with each one
+of the Boy Scouts.</p>
+
+<p>"You've done me a good turn, boys, a mighty good turn. I was just on my
+way to the mill pond to arrest these chaps when I saw a light ahead, and
+creeping up, witnessed this interesting sight. When I've found that bag
+now, I imagine I'll have the case against these two worthies clean cut,"
+he said.</p>
+
+<p>Upon which Paul quietly stepped over into the bushes and fished out the
+article in question, which he delivered to the officer.</p>
+
+<p>From Brad's pocket was taken the wad of bills which Ted had thought to
+purloin from the bag before he threw it and the rest of its contents
+away.</p>
+
+<p>"This is counterfeit money, boys, made from the plates in the bag. They
+were taking these things to Solus, who had written them that he had
+secured a nice quiet retreat where they might work undisturbed. So you
+see, my boy," said Mr. Pender to Ted, "if you had made way with this
+it must have gotten you into a peck of trouble from the start. You're
+lucky to get out of it as easy as you do."</p>
+
+<p>Ted was looking anything but cheerful.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! I knowed it was bad money all the while, sir, but I wanted to take
+it to the chief of police in town. I ain't ever goin' to run up against
+Paul Morrison and his crowd no more, after this white way they treated
+me. Not much. I'm goin' to turn over a new leaf after this. But please,
+mister, get that key from him, and take these things off. Makes me squirm
+to just feel 'em. But, mister, I'm glad I didn't have to smoke, after
+all," and that seemed to be the burden of Ted's thanksgiving.</p>
+
+<p>As to his ever turning over that promised new leaf, well, Paul believed
+they were more apt to find potatoes growing on apple trees than that
+such a wonder should come about.</p>
+
+<p>"But I'm not satisfied yet, boys," said the Government agent; "there's a
+third one to get; Solus Smithers, who is known to me by another name.
+Now, I wonder if I could leave these two prisoners in charge of several
+of you, while the rest went with me in the car? I'll make use of the
+rope, so they just can't possibly get away."</p>
+
+<p>It was presently decided that William, Wallace and Bobolink should stay,
+also Ted if he cared to remain. Paul and Jack would accompany Mr. Pender,
+so as to render any assistance needed. They could also bring back little
+Willie Boggs, should he be found under the roof of the old farmhouse by
+the mill pond.</p>
+
+<p>"The worst of it is I don't know how to handle a machine," remarked the
+gentleman, after they had stepped out on to the road.</p>
+
+<p>"Both of us do, sir," remarked Paul; "so if you will jump aboard we'll
+soon be off."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I'd just like to learn if there is anything you Boy Scouts don't
+know how to handle?" observed the pleased agent, as he saw the two lamps
+put back in position, though only one was allowed to remain lighted.</p>
+
+<p>It took them but a short time to draw close to the farmhouse by the pond.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Pender jumped out and advanced through the darkness toward the door.
+Just as he reached it the boys, looking, saw it open. Then the voice of
+Sol Smithers came plainly to them.</p>
+
+<p>"Wall, did yuh run acrost the bag, Brad? I guessed 'twas on'y layin' down
+the road a piece. But what yuh mean apushin' in on me thetaways?"</p>
+
+<p>"You're my prisoner, Silas Westover. Don't try to run, or it will be the
+worse for you. I have plenty of help and your place is surrounded. Wash
+and Brad are already in irons. Hold up your hands!" came in the stern
+voice of Mr. Pender.</p>
+
+<p>Of course the man who had called himself Solus Smithers did not offer any
+resistance, and he was quickly made a prisoner. When he found later that
+one man, assisted by a parcel of Boy Scouts, had captured three desperate
+characters, he was about as mad as a hornet; but it was too late then
+to remedy matters.</p>
+
+<p>Paul and Jack immediately started a search for the missing Willie Boggs.
+The youngster was discovered fast asleep on a cot, just as the man who
+had found him in the woods had lain him down.</p>
+
+<p>And when Mr. Pender saw this he nodded his head, and declared that
+because Solus had shown that he possessed a tender heart, for all his
+assumed fierceness, he would make it as easy for him when the case to
+trial, as he could.</p>
+
+<p>After Mr. Pender had searched the place, and accumulated what evidence
+he needed, all of them got into the car, Willie still sound asleep. Then
+they started over the road for Stanhope.</p>
+
+<p>The town was reached at just one o'clock. At police headquarters Mr.
+Pender delivered his three prisoners for safe keeping. After that Paul
+again took the red car out to bring in the remainder of the patrol, for
+they were miles away from home.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXX" id="CHAPTER_XXX"></a>CHAPTER XXX</h2>
+
+<h3>FOUND OUT AT LAST</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Why, hello! Paul! I didn't hear you ring. Did you fly in through the
+window?"</p>
+
+<p>Jack sprang up from the easy chair he had been occupying in the library
+of his own home, when his chum suddenly appeared before him.</p>
+
+<p>It was about ten o'clock on the morning following the hunt for the lost
+boy; and the remarkable occurrences that had accompanied it up in the
+woods above Stanhope.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! you know I told you I might slip in by the back door this time; and
+that is just what I did," replied Paul, speaking in an unusually guarded
+tone.</p>
+
+<p>"That's a fact!" exclaimed Jack, beginning to show signs of excitement;
+"and I remember that at the same time you promised&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"I'd try my best to solve the puzzle about those disappearing old coins,
+and tell you to-day," said his chum, breaking in. "Well, perhaps I may,
+though my most promising clue has turned out a bit of a fizzle."</p>
+
+<p>"But you have another up your sleeve, you said?" continued Jack, eagerly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I believe I have," Paul admitted. "Some time later, when we get
+this queer affair off our hands, I want to talk with you about a lot of
+things connected with this scout movement. I got some good ideas from a
+bunch of papers left at our house for me. Guess who remembered us in
+such a bully way?"</p>
+
+<p>"Give it up. I might mention every gentleman in town, and then some,"
+laughed Jack; "for they're all watching what we're doing, with interest.
+But go on and tell me who it was, Paul."</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Peleg Growdy," came the surprising answer.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you don't say?" exclaimed his chum, delight showing in his voice;
+"so the old man has really seen a great light, has he? I guess he's
+taking more interest in our troop than anybody else in town. That night's
+work was the best thing that ever happened for the boys of Stanhope, as
+well as for Peleg. I take off my cap to him after this, Paul."</p>
+
+<p>"But wait; that isn't all. You know that Si Growdy is a nephew of his?
+Well, he's without a home no longer. Peleg sent for him, and they had a
+long talk. Si told me this morning that he's really been adopted by his
+uncle, and is going to make his home with him. What d'ye think of that,
+Jack?"</p>
+
+<p>"Just immense, that's what," declared his companion, slapping a hand on
+Paul's shoulder; "I'm glad we went there and cleaned up the old man's
+dooryard. Some of the boys thought it silly at the time; but they
+understand things better now. He was just needing something like that to
+touch his heart. Up to then he thought all boys were pests. We opened his
+eyes some, eh?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's right, we did. But about those coins!" said Paul, smiling once
+more.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, first tell me who it was you suspected that has turned out
+innocent?" asked his chum.</p>
+
+<p>"There he lies yonder, sleeping, with one eye open and watching us!"
+remarked Paul, pointing across the room.</p>
+
+<p>"What! Carlo! You actually suspected him of taking my coins? Why, Paul,
+whatever put that notion into your head?" demanded Jack, in sheer
+astonishment.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," returned Paul; "perhaps it was silly, but then you've taught him
+to fetch a basket from the baker's, and do lots of stunts. I didn't know
+but what the sly old chap might be helping himself to your coins, and
+palming them off on the butcher for a supply of bones."</p>
+
+<p>"That would have been the limit!" gasped his friend. "But you found out
+that he was innocent, did you?"</p>
+
+<p>"I finally went in and talked with Mr. Griggs; but he said Carlo just
+came in once in a while, looking so pitifully at him, that he didn't have
+the heart to refuse a bone. So none of your lost coins have gone into his
+till, Jack."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! that would have been the queerest thing ever, had he done it. But
+now about the other clue you have&mdash;tell me about it, Paul," continued
+the anxious one. Paul had seated himself where he could keep an eye down
+the street in front of the house. And while his chum was talking he had
+smiled as if he might have discovered something out there that pleased
+him very much.</p>
+
+<p>"Come right up to your den with me, Jack, and leave Carlo shut in here,"
+he said, rising; "and when we get upstairs open the window to air the
+room. Then I shall ask you to let me hide there behind something, while
+you go downstairs, pass out, and along the street in plain view."</p>
+
+<p>"Say, that's a mighty queer thing to do," ventured the other.</p>
+
+<p>"It's all a part of my plan. You must leave the door of the den open too.
+And Jack, after you get around the corner I want you to sneak back to the
+rear of the house, and come up again, crawling into the den here, if
+everything is quiet."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! all right, if you say so, Paul," Jack observed; "but you've sure got
+me guessing to beat the band, right now. Here's the window open. Now
+shall I get busy, and meander off?"</p>
+
+<p>"Right away. Please carry it out just as I said. You ought to be back
+here inside of six or seven minutes; and I guess that will be time enough
+before the circus begins, Jack."</p>
+
+<p>So the owner of the little den at the top of the house gave his chum one
+last look of bewilderment, and turning, hastened down the stairs.</p>
+
+<p>Paul, with a glance around, chose a certain corner for his hiding-place.
+Here he could see without exposing himself to view; and squatting down he
+prepared to await developments.</p>
+
+<p>A minute later he got up, and moved an old screen partly across the
+floor, so that it hid the open door. When Jack returned, he could crawl
+alongside the hiding boy without showing himself to any one in the room,
+or beyond the window.</p>
+
+<p>Hardly had five minutes crept by when Paul heard a slight sound. It came
+from the stairs, and he smiled, knowing that his chum had lost no time in
+carrying out his part of the plot.</p>
+
+<p>So Jack came sliding in, and was soon nestling down at Paul's side,
+brimming over with curiosity, yet deterred from asking questions by the
+fact that Paul had put up a warning finger.</p>
+
+<p>Several more minutes passed by, when Jack was thrilled to see something
+moving in the direction of the partly open window. It seemed to be a
+long cane fishing rod, that had a dark colored lump at the end of it.</p>
+
+<p>The rod continued to advance slowly into the den. It was, of course, in
+the hands of some one perched in the window of the attic belonging to the
+empty house so close by; and Jack could easily guess now who that person
+must be.</p>
+
+<p>Scissors Dempsey, once his friend, but latterly a crony of Ted Slavin!</p>
+
+<p>Now the end of the rod seemed to hover above the little box containing
+all that were left of Jack's old coins. And even as he and Paul looked
+they saw it descend until the light box was tilted partly over, when the
+point of the long rod was pushed into it vigorously. Jack was reminded
+somewhat of a human hand groping about. And then, as the fishing pole was
+rapidly withdrawn, he saw one of his few remaining old coins sticking to
+the black lump at its terminus!</p>
+
+<p>The game was now clear. Scissors, inspired by a love of fun, or a desire
+to mystify Jack, perhaps make him suspect that one of his chums was
+taking the coins, had come every day into this empty house belonging to
+his father. Whenever he found the window in Jack's den open he amused
+himself with this strange fishing.</p>
+
+<p>Paul beckoned to his chum, and then silently crept out of the den, which
+he was easily enabled to do, thanks to the screen he had placed to cover
+the open door.</p>
+
+<p>Once down on the next landing Jack clutched his sleeve.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, would you dream of such a thing as that?" exclaimed the latter,
+nearly ready to explode with laughter, yet feeling a bit angry at the
+same time. "What under the sun d'ye suppose he's doing such a stunt for,
+Paul?"</p>
+
+<p>"We'd better put it up to Scissors," replied the other, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"Then you suggest waiting for him as he comes out, and telling him we
+know all about his fishing for my coins?" asked Jack.</p>
+
+<p>"Come along. He might be satisfied with just one to-day. You see it's
+getting harder, with so few left in the box," and Paul led the way
+downstairs again.</p>
+
+<p>"But what's he got on the end of that pole?" demanded his chum.</p>
+
+<p>"I think it must be a lump of rather soft tar, or pitch," came Paul's
+answer, readily enough. "I found a little on one of the coins left the
+last time we examined them; and you said that the fourth stuck to the
+side of the box. Yes, that's what it is. Now, let's wait over by the
+front door, for that's the way he goes in."</p>
+
+<p>Five minutes later the front door of the empty house opened, and a tall
+boy, with spindly legs, came slily out. He stopped to turn a key in the
+lock. Then, as he wheeled, it was to find himself facing two fellows who
+were probably the very last boys in Stanhope he expected to see.</p>
+
+<p>"Just in time to explain how you came to think of that clever little
+fishing dodge of yours, Scissors," remarked Paul; "and to give back all
+those old coins you've been raking in so smartly. Thought it lots of fun,
+didn't you? And meant to twist my chum up so he'd think one of his own
+crowd had been taking them?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," Jack said, in turn, looking as angry as he could; "and if you
+don't turn every blessed copper piece over to me right away, there's
+going to be trouble at your house, understand that, Scissors?"</p>
+
+<p>The guilty one turned red in the face. Then he laughed as though he
+wanted to consider it a joke.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! come off!" he exclaimed, with a gesture of disgust; "can't you take
+a little fun, Jack? Of course I meant to give 'em all back again, after
+I'd had my sport out of the game, and got the last coin. They're upstairs
+here, right now. Come along in, and I'll show you. The slick trick is
+gone up in smoke now, anyway; since you got on to my curves. But I
+wouldn't make such a big fuss over nothing."</p>
+
+<p>"It wasn't the coins, because they don't count for much; but just think
+how I felt at even suspecting that some fellow who was my friend had been
+taking them," said Jack, as he and Paul followed Scissors into the empty
+house.</p>
+
+<p>And from the sneer on the other's face as he looked back, Paul was
+inclined to believe that this was just what he had been doing the thing
+for. He disliked Jack as much now as he had once cared for him; and would
+probably enjoy nothing better than to see him turn on some friend,
+perhaps even his best chum.</p>
+
+<p>The coins were found, as he had said, in a marble-bag in the attic. While
+Jack was counting them, Paul knelt at the window, and experimented with
+the long fishing rod he found on the floor. He discovered that he could
+manage to tilt the little box on the table quite easily, though it needed
+some labor before he brought one of the coins across the open space,
+glued to the pitch at the point of the rod.</p>
+
+<p>"All there, ain't they?" demanded Scissors.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," replied Jack; "though so sticky I'll have to wash them in
+something like benzine. Perhaps you did do it for a lark, Scissors; but
+I'll make sure that a screen is in that window whenever it's open after
+this."</p>
+
+<p>"Huh! I guess the feller that invented this racket could get up somethin'
+just as good if he wanted," and that was all Scissors ever said about
+it to the boy he had wronged.</p>
+
+<p>Jack, having recovered his property, did not care to do anything further
+about the robbery. Later on Scissors himself told his cronies, thinking
+it to his credit; and they more than a few times tried to joke Jack about
+his disappearing coins. But he took it all in good humor, and after a
+while the thing was apparently forgotten, because the boys of Stanhope
+had many other things of importance to engage their undivided attention.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXI" id="CHAPTER_XXXI"></a>CHAPTER XXXI</h2>
+
+<h3>WELL DONE STANHOPE TROOP!&mdash;CONCLUSION</h3>
+
+
+<p>Days and weeks passed.</p>
+
+<p>In season and out, the boys of industrious Stanhope Troop worked. Never
+had the good people known such a wave of enthusiasm to sweep over the
+town on the Bushkill. It seemed as catching as the measles, this spirit
+of energy, and a desire to do things worth while, which had taken
+possession of most of the boys.</p>
+
+<p>Parents got together, and conferring, admitted that this new fad was by
+all odds the best thing that had ever happened. They determined to
+encourage it to the limit. Even those who were doubtful at the start,
+found themselves obliged to admit that never before had Stanhope
+presented such a clean appearance; and not within the recollection
+of the oldest inhabitant had boys been so obliging.</p>
+
+<p>After the Stanhope Troop had been fully received into the National
+organization an efficient scout master was finally secured in the person
+of a young man by the name of Alec Gordon. He had lately come from
+visiting across the water, where he had enjoyed the personal acquaintance
+of several leading lights in the scout movement in England. Besides that,
+he was naturally fond of the woods, and best of all, filled with a deep
+love for the boy of to-day.</p>
+
+<p>Under his guidance the troop prospered, and made rapid progress along the
+lines started by Paul. The only trouble about the whole matter was that
+Mr. Gordon, being a traveling man, was liable to be called away just when
+his presence might be most needed.</p>
+
+<p>Several times this had occurred, and feeling the need of leaving a deputy
+to fill his place, he put it up to the boys themselves. Of course there
+had not been a dissenting vote; and Paul was elected to play the part of
+guide, should an emergency arise; and in this way he became assistant
+scout master of the troop.</p>
+
+<p>They need have no fear concerning his ability to fill the r&ocirc;le. He
+had proven equal to the task before now; and there were not a few,
+particularly among those acknowledging the magical Red Fox as their
+totem, who secretly cherished a belief that Paul knew more about the
+secrets of Nature than any <i>two</i> mature scout masters.</p>
+
+<p>Every chance that offered the scouts were abroad, as busy as bees in the
+honey season; only instead of laying up sweets these energetic chaps
+sought new information. They followed the trails of fox, 'coon and
+rabbit; they watched the habits of the noisy crows holding a caucus in
+the woods; they kept company with the red squirrel and the frolicsome
+chipmunk as they stored away the chestnuts and juicy hickories for their
+winter's supply of food.</p>
+
+<p>And on every occasion they labored to make themselves perfect in those
+branches of wood lore, and the knowledge of useful things, which they
+expected would play a prominent part in the approaching competition.</p>
+
+<p>Just as Paul and Wallace had predicted, it was found that nearly every
+fellow had a love for Nature and her wonderful secrets somewhere in his
+system; even though with a few this breath had to be fanned vigorously in
+order to keep it alive.</p>
+
+<p>Of course they were annoyed again and again by Ted Slavin and his envious
+followers; for the bully of the town had drifted back to his old ways, as
+might have been expected.</p>
+
+<p>When peaceful tactics failed to stop these malicious tricks, the scout
+master personally appealed to the authorities, and a warning was issued
+that, for a time at least, dismayed the disturbers of the meetings. But
+when they could do so in secret, they never lost an opportunity to play
+some sly trick.</p>
+
+<p>Another thing that had been anticipated came to pass. This was the utter
+failure of Ward's cronies to maintain any interest in the duties of
+scouts. Those twelve cardinal virtues that must at all times be held up
+before the fellow who expects to become and remain a Boy Scout in good
+standing, failed to appeal to these rough and ready chaps. It would
+indeed require a revolution in boy nature to make Ted Slavin, or his
+crony, Scissors, trustworthy, loyal, helpful to others, friendly,
+courteous, kind, obedient to his superior officers, cheerful, thrifty,
+brave, clean and reverent!</p>
+
+<p>Just a few days before Thanksgiving the scout master came to Paul with
+the distressing news that he had received an imperative summons from his
+firm to go out on the road; so that it would debar him from being present
+when the long-looked-for-competition took place.</p>
+
+<p>"But," said Mr. Gordon, as he shook Paul by the hand earnestly; "I firmly
+believe that you will be able to fill my place so well that my absence
+will not make the slightest difference," and Paul, of course, simply said
+he would do his best.</p>
+
+<p>The fellows of Stanhope Troop knew full well what that "best" meant.</p>
+
+<p>But as the boys of Manchester Troop and that of Aldine as well, learned
+through some of their energetic scouts, what a strong bid these patrols
+of the Fox were going to make, in the hope of winning that coveted
+banner, they seemed to be stirred to make new endeavors.</p>
+
+<p>Paul managed to keep advised of pretty much all that was going on; since
+this was a part of a scout's duty; though no mean advantage was ever
+taken of the rival camps&mdash;he would not stand for that. In a quiet way he
+had learned how their meetings became more frequent, and the desire to
+excel, that had threatened to dwindle away for lack of rivalry, grew more
+keen.</p>
+
+<p>Paul was glad of it. Competition is the life of trade; but it also
+encourages boys to do their level best. There would be a brave fight for
+that banner; and no walk-over. The troop that won it might well be proud
+of the honor. And Paul was still full of faith. He watched his scouts go
+through their various interesting stunts with a growing conviction that
+they must stand at the head when the day came for the meeting, and the
+report of the committee appointed to make the test was declared.</p>
+
+<p>He knew that fortune had been very kind in allowing himself and Jack to
+make a heavy score in favor of Stanhope Troop. The stopping of the
+runaway horse, and the saving of the baby at the fire would bring them
+many points. Then there was the wonderful letter from Washington, on
+official paper too, in which Mr. Jared Pender told the story of how much
+he had been helped by the Red Fox patrol in his task of capturing those
+desperate rascals who were flooding the whole country with their bogus
+money.</p>
+
+<p>But Paul was determined that, aside from the help afforded by these
+glorious deeds, the boys of Stanhope should excel all others in their
+knowledge of woodcraft, and the valuable things every boy with red blood
+in his veins should possess.</p>
+
+<p>So they kept up the good work after the scout master had left them.</p>
+
+<p>Long since had Bobolink received his bugle, and William his drum. Both
+proved very able in managing these musical instruments, and the shrill
+notes of the one, and the roll of the other, had become very familiar and
+acceptable sounds in Stanhope these fall days, when the first snow made
+its appearance.</p>
+
+<p>Already had they planned a great camp for the next summer, and there was
+talk of a grand hike into the almost unknown, to them, country far to the
+north. What strange adventures were destined to befall them during this
+eventful outing, together with the fun that William and Bobolink afforded
+the troop, will be recounted in the next volume, to be called: "The
+Banner Boy Scouts on a Tour; or, The Mystery of Rattlesnake Mountain."</p>
+
+<p>Even at school the teachers noticed that things seemed to move along much
+more smoothly than ever before. Some of them were inclined to suspect
+that a miracle had been wrought in boy nature; until it was shown that
+there were still quite a number of transgressors, and that not one of the
+bad ones belonged to the scouts. That opened their eyes, and after such
+evidence they were one and all heartily in favor of the organization that
+kept lads interested, taught them every noble duty that would make them
+better men later on, caused them to be manly, heroic, self-confident in
+time of sudden peril, and able to stand up for their rights.</p>
+
+<p>Thanksgiving came at last.</p>
+
+<p>The entire county showed a keen interest in the rivalry of the three
+troops for leadership. Each had its sturdy backers, who believed their
+home company to be the best; and hence when the choice of situation fell
+to Manchester, it looked as though nearly the entire population of
+Stanhope and Aldine had also gathered to cheer their favorites on.</p>
+
+<p>The competition was keenly contested. A dozen different events had been
+scheduled some time back by the committee, as the more important elements
+that would enter into the struggle; and the scout master of each patrol
+had been notified, so that he might select those most competent to
+succeed.</p>
+
+<p>Scout master Gordon, and later on his deputy, Paul, had been working with
+those who excelled in these various lines. Nothing was left undone to
+make them proficient in their work. When the critical time came, and
+before the eyes of thousands they lined up before the committee to take
+the test, Paul believed that success was sure to come.</p>
+
+<p>Football was in the air for the afternoon; but that morning every school
+flag fluttered in that densely packed field where the arena was laid.
+Scores upon scores of pretty girls clapped their hands, and sang
+patriotic songs that had reference to their particular town, whenever
+a Stanhope, a Manchester or an Aldine competitor started to prove his
+superior knowledge of the arts of woodcraft.</p>
+
+<p>Wallace Carberry brought the first honors to the Red Fox patrol. He had
+his quart of water boiling a full minute before either of his rivals;
+and retired amid thunderous applause. Wallace would show up in several
+other events, for he was the mainstay of Paul's contesting delegation.</p>
+
+<p>Then came other interesting object lessons. Many present failed to
+understand altogether what they signified; but they were patriotic, and
+ready to cheer the victor to the echo.</p>
+
+<p>On account of the lateness of the season several events that might have
+taken place at another time were debarred, such as swimming, fishing, and
+sports peculiar to the good old summer time.</p>
+
+<p>Nevertheless, there were plenty of others equally as interesting. Three
+boys entered as contestants in the rapid photography class. They took a
+snap shot at a given word, darted into separate prepared dark rooms,
+developed their plates, dried the same, each after his own fashion, and
+presented a completed picture before the other competitions were done.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile three others showed just how a scout should learn to follow a
+difficult trail, where all manner of obstacles stood in the way. While
+the crowd could not fully understand just how this was done, the
+committee seemed unanimous in awarding the victory once more to Wallace,
+for he had not made a single error, and he finished ahead of his rivals.</p>
+
+<p>Others were set to work tying ten difficult knots, and the fun waxed fast
+and furious as they worked their nimble fingers, keeping an eye on each
+other the while.</p>
+
+<p>In another place three tents were given to squads of boys from each
+patrol, and at the word they set to work to erect the same, dig a water
+drain in case of rain, and have everything in "apple-pie" shape. The
+committee gave plain warning that it was not speed alone that would count
+here, but the general ship-shape condition following the carrying out of
+the conditions.</p>
+
+<p>And again the boys of the Stanhope Troop came in winners by a good
+margin.</p>
+
+<p>Manchester drew a prize when the contest of landing a big fish came on.
+A boy played the part of the fish, and fought with all his strength and
+cunning to keep from being reeled in. But big Carl Evans, the Manchester
+fisherman, proved to be too strong and able for those who competed, and
+had his fish landed minutes ahead.</p>
+
+<p>The archers then took a turn. Here Aldine presented a clever expert, who
+had made this his especial hobby for some years. He could not be headed,
+though the other fellows from Stanhope and Manchester really made a very
+creditable showing.</p>
+
+<p>One of the most interesting exhibitions of the morning, and one that
+excited considerable cheering, was the "first aid to the injured."</p>
+
+<p>A boy was supposed to have fallen overboard into the river. In each case
+several contestants pretended to drag him out, placing him face downward,
+with his arms above his head, and his face a little to one side. Then one
+of the rescuers knelt astride the body, allowing his hands to press upon
+the spaces between the short ribs. By pressing downward the air was
+forced from the other's lungs, to creep in again when this was relaxed;
+and in this fashion an artificial respiration was induced that should
+grow stronger as minutes passed.</p>
+
+<p>Of course, as no boy was so accommodating as to fall into the cold waters
+of the Bushkill for the occasion, the contestants finished at the same
+time. The committee, after mature consultation, awarded the victory to
+the team accomplishing their work in the most business-like fashion.
+Aldine was so fortunate as to receive the award, and her people shouted
+themselves hoarse.</p>
+
+<p>In athletics the three competing troops proved very nearly even; and
+brought out rounds of cheers as they followed one another in carrying
+out the several events scheduled.</p>
+
+<p>Possibly when William proved his great superiority as a camp cook, by
+making the batter, and cooking a luscious flap-jack long before any other
+fellow could accomplish the feat, his victory was the most popular one of
+the day. Fully five score of fellows made motions to prove they were
+starved, and that a bite from the airy pancake would possibly serve as
+a life saver. But after the committee had tested it, William calmly
+devoured the balance, to the tune of mingled groans and cheers.</p>
+
+<p>Last of all came the wig-wagging contest, when boys sent and received
+messages fashioned by the committee, the nature of which was unknown at
+the other end. In this Stanhope again made a record that put her boys in
+the van, for Paul had secured and studied the army manual on using the
+signal flags, and to good advantage.</p>
+
+<p>After the twelfth and last event had been completed, the committee went
+into session, examined the papers they already held, and finally
+announced that Stanhope had carried off the prize with six clean events,
+the others being equally divided between the two clever troops from the
+other towns.</p>
+
+<p>It was undoubtedly a popular victory, judging from the record-breaking
+volume of noise that greeted the announcement. What else the chairman
+would have said, with regard to the great good the establishment of these
+patrols had brought to the county, was drowned in the wild clamor.</p>
+
+<p>Paul, acting for the absent scout master, accepted the beautiful banner
+presented by the good old Quaker who loved peace above all things. He was
+immediately swept off his feet, and carried in triumph around the field,
+waving the emblem that would from that hour stamp the Stanhope Troop as
+the Banner Boy Scouts of the county.</p>
+
+<p>Little Paul cared that some frowned, or that Ward Kenwood sneered as the
+procession marched past. Close by he could see the happy face of Arline,
+together with those of his parents; and it satisfied him to know that
+through his unflagging perseverance he had been able to land his scouts
+in the van.</p>
+
+<p>Other trials and contests would doubtless have to be encountered; but
+with that banner to encourage then the Fox patrols could meet each
+emergency as it arose, and struggle on through difficulties to a glorious
+success.</p>
+
+
+<p>THE END</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Banner Boy Scouts, by George A. Warren
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Banner Boy Scouts, by George A. Warren
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Banner Boy Scouts
+       Or, The Struggle for Leadership
+
+Author: George A. Warren
+
+Release Date: December 9, 2005 [EBook #17266]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BANNER BOY SCOUTS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Garcia, Mary Meehan and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                          The Banner Boy Scouts
+
+                      Or The Struggle for Leadership
+
+                           By GEORGE A. WARREN
+
+
+
+
+THE WORLD SYNDICATE PUBLISHING CO.
+CLEVELAND, O.       NEW YORK, N.Y.
+
+Copyright, MCMXII
+
+by CUPPLES & LEON COMPANY
+
+_Printed in the United States of America_
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+
+CHAPTER
+
+       I A Meeting in the Barn
+
+      II What it Means to be a Boy Scout
+
+     III The Disappearing Coins
+
+      IV The First Scout Leader
+
+       V Checking a Coward
+
+      VI A Strange Suggestion
+
+     VII The Trap that Peleg Set
+
+    VIII Turning the Tables
+
+      IX "Well Done, My Boy!"
+
+       X An Unexpected Offer
+
+      XI Caught Napping
+
+     XII The Rival Troops
+
+    XIII "Fire!"
+
+     XIV Jack's Chance
+
+      XV The Honor Brand
+
+     XVI The Fire Test
+
+    XVII Clearing Skies
+
+   XVIII Carlo Does His Turn
+
+     XIX The Warning Over the Wire
+
+      XX Such Glorious Luck
+
+     XXI The Meeting
+
+    XXII Scouting in Earnest
+
+   XXIII The Red Car
+
+    XXIV A Call for Help
+
+     XXV A Camp in the Woods
+
+    XXVI What Woodcraft Told
+
+   XXVII Ted Finds Something
+
+  XXVIII Forced to Tell
+
+    XXIX The Capture
+
+     XXX Found Out at Last
+
+    XXXI Well Done, Stanhope Troop!--Conclusion
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE
+
+
+My Dear Boys:
+
+Knowing that ninety-nine lads out of every hundred love outdoor life
+above all else, I have taken it upon myself to give you a series of
+what I hope will prove to be clean, wide-awake, up-to-date stories,
+founded upon a subject that is interesting our whole nation--the Boy
+Scouts of America. You know what a hold this movement has taken upon
+the rising generation of our broad land. There never was anything like
+it before--there never may be again.
+
+At first many people made the mistake of believing that it was simply a
+new military order, and that boys who joined were to be taught the duties
+of soldiers, and learned how to fight. They know better now. It is really
+the greatest movement for Peace ever started. Not only that, but the lads
+who belong to this vast organization are taught how to be manly, self
+reliant, brave, courteous, kindly and steadfast.
+
+When you examine the roster of the officers who have loaned their names
+to help along the good cause you will find such honored signatures as
+those of President William Howard Taft, ex-President Theodore Roosevelt,
+and many others dear to the hearts of our boys.
+
+This glorious field opens up a very tempting opportunity for a series of
+stirring stories concerning the fortunes of _real_ Boy Scouts, who have
+gone into the movement heart and soul, with a desire to excel in all they
+undertake; and at the same time enjoy themselves hugely. I only hope and
+trust that you may be pleased with what you read in this book, about the
+doings of the Red Fox Patrol, of Stanhope Troop, and that the story
+will do you much good.
+
+Yours faithfully,
+
+George A. Warren.
+
+
+
+
+THE BANNER BOY SCOUTS
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I
+
+A MEETING IN THE BARN
+
+
+"All here now, Paul!"
+
+"Call the roll, somebody, won't you?"
+
+"Keep quiet, fellows, please!"
+
+"Shall I strike a match, Paul?"
+
+"Not on your life, Bobolink. That crowd of Ted Slavin's is out, looking
+for us. Somebody must have leaked, or else Ted was tipped off. We've got
+to be mighty cautious, I tell you, if we want to give them the slip."
+
+"S-s-say, d-d-don't you k-k-know we've got a fi-fine b-b-barn on our
+p-p-place, fellows?"
+
+"For goodness sake; won't somebody please pound Bluff Shipley on the
+back, and make him bite his twisted tongue, so he can talk straight?"
+cried a pleading voice.
+
+"Listen!"
+
+There must have been a streak of authority in the tone used by Paul
+Morrison when he spoke this last word; every one of the other six boys
+crouched there, craning his neck, and listening to catch the unusual
+sound that had apparently reached the trained ears of their leader.
+
+The woods surrounded the boys on all sides, gloomy, and full of
+mystifying noises.
+
+Yet Paul knew full well just what every one of the sounds meant. An owl
+called mournfully to its mate from a hollow tree. Katydids and merry
+crickets added their shrill music to the chorus of that late summer
+night. Even a colony of tree frogs solemnly chanted their appeal for
+"more rain."
+
+During the day just ended six fellows in the thriving town of Stanhope
+had received urgent telephone calls from Paul, who was an only son of the
+leading doctor in the place.
+
+And each boy had promised to meet him at the Three Oaks by the time the
+clock in the church steeple had struck eight.
+
+It was even now booming out the hour.
+
+When the last stroke died away, the most impatient among the gathered
+boys moved restlessly.
+
+"Follow me, fellows," said Paul, in a low, thrilling tone.
+
+"Where are we heading for?" queried one, who had as yet failed to express
+his feelings in the matter.
+
+This was Wallace Carberry, the sober member of the pair known far
+and wide as the Carberry Twins; his mate, William, being his exact
+counterpart in every particular, when he chose to repress the
+good-natured grin that usually marked his fate.
+
+"To the Shipley barn; single file; and silence is the watchword!"
+
+Paul Morrison had long enjoyed the confidence of his comrades in most
+matters pertaining to outdoor sports. A healthy lad, both in mind and
+body, he was never so happy as when studying the secrets of Nature in
+wood and meadow; or in playing any of the various strenuous games to
+which all boys with red blood in their veins are addicted.
+
+And when he sent out his mysterious request that some of his most
+intimate friends meet him on this night, as he had a communication
+of importance to put up to them, the greatest curiosity made itself
+manifest.
+
+Paul never suggested ordinary things. More than once he had engineered
+some game that brought honor and glory to the boys of Stanhope; and
+remembering these satisfactory "stunts" of old, it was no wonder these
+fellows had come to the place of meeting without a single exception.
+
+With Bluff Shipley close upon the heels of the leader, and Robert Oliver
+Link, whose name had long since been corrupted into Bobolink, bringing
+up the rear, the seven lads trailed through the woods, following some
+path with which they were evidently more or less familiar.
+
+Several times Paul gave a recognized signal that caused every one of the
+bunch to stop short, and turn his head on one side in the endeavor to
+discover whether hostile footsteps could be heard in their rear.
+
+But although there were doubtless many rustling sounds, the boys laid
+these to the bright-eyed little denizens of that strip of woodland. Too
+often had they watched the chipmunks and red squirrels hunting for nuts
+under the already falling leaves, not to know that the forest was peopled
+with these harmless animals.
+
+After five minutes more there loomed up before them the dark outlines of
+a huge barn that seemed rather out of place here on the border of the
+woods.
+
+This belonged to the father of Bluff, who, being a prosperous tobacco
+grower in this valley, used the place to cure the product of his broad
+fields, after it had been harvested in the fall.
+
+Paul had been carrying some sort of package in his hand, and the boys for
+some time amused themselves in guessing its nature. When he took off the
+paper it stood revealed as a lantern, ready for lighting.
+
+"Show us the way inside, Bluff. Then we'll have a little light on the
+subject," remarked the leader, with a last anxious searching look around;
+as though he still entertained suspicions that their march to the old
+barn might have been observed by some of the hostile Slavin crowd.
+
+Ted Slavin had long been known as the bully of Stanhope; for it seems
+that there never yet existed a village or town without some big chap
+exercising that privilege. He was a fighter, too, and able to hold his
+own against the best. Besides, Ted had shown some of the qualities that
+indicate a natural leader; though he held the allegiance of those who
+trailed after him mostly through fear, rather than any respect for his
+manly qualities.
+
+His leading crony for the past year had been Ward Kenwood, son of the
+wealthy banker who was also a leading real estate owner in the place.
+Once upon a time Ward would have scorned the thought of associating with
+Slavin and his crowd; but an occasion had arisen whereby he had need of
+a strong arm to even up a score, and once he found himself indebted to
+Ted he kept on in the bully's company.
+
+His rivalry in many fields with Paul had much to do with his throwing his
+fortunes in with the other fellows. And nothing pleased him more than to
+be able to upset any calculations the latter entertained. That explained
+why Paul was anxious to avoid a meeting with the Slavin crowd on this
+particular night, when he was brimming over with a great idea.
+
+Once the boys had entered the barn, Bluff secured the door, after which
+a match was quickly lighted.
+
+"Now, here we are, safe and sound, and not an enemy around. Suppose you
+open up, Paul, and get this load off our minds," said Albert Cypher, who
+seldom heard his own name among his friends, but was known far and wide
+as Nuthin'.
+
+But what else could a lad expect who was so unfortunate as to find
+himself afflicted with such a name as A. Cypher?
+
+"Yes, what's it all mean, Paul? You haven't even taken me in, you know,
+and I'm as much in the dark as the next fellow," remarked Jack Stormways,
+reproachfully; for being Paul's closest chum he might have expected to
+share his confidence.
+
+"Wait a bit. We might as well make ourselves comfortable while we're
+about it. I'll sit down on this box, and the rest of you gather around on
+the floor. I've got a big proposition to make, and you want to listen
+carefully."
+
+"T-t-take c-c-care of the lantern, f-f-fellows; my d-d-dad's w-w-wanting
+this old barn f-f-for his t-t-tobacco crop, and he'd b-b-be some put out
+if it b-b-burned just now!" came from Bluff.
+
+Finding perches on various low piles of waste left over after the
+shipment of the last crop, the six lads gathered around Paul, eagerness
+stamped on every beaming face.
+
+"Now, what's the idea that struck you this time, Paul?" demanded
+Bobolink.
+
+"I'll tell you without any beating around the bush, fellows. The thought
+came to me that Stanhope was away behind the times. Other towns not
+nearly so big, have one or more troops of Boy Scouts. Why shouldn't we
+get up one here?" and Paul waited to hear what the response would be.
+
+The six who sat in a ring looked at each other as though stunned by the
+proposal. It was strange, indeed, that no one had up to this time taken
+a lead in advancing such a thing.
+
+"Bully idea, Paul!" ejaculated Jack, slapping a hand on his knee
+enthusiastically, as though it appealed to him most decidedly.
+
+"Well, I declare, to think that nobody ever mentioned such a grand
+movement before. Count me in right from the start!" said Wallace
+Carberry--sober Wallace, who usually measured his words as though they
+were golden.
+
+"And me too," observed Bobolink.
+
+"Ditto for William!" called out the other Carberry Twin, grinning with
+delight.
+
+"G-g-guess I'd make a bully good t-t-tenderfoot!"
+
+"That's the best thing you ever thought up, old chap," came from Nuthin'.
+
+"Hurrah! every county heard from, and not one contrary word. It looks
+as if there might be something doing right soon around this region,"
+declared Paul, naturally pleased because his proposition had met with
+such unanimous satisfaction.
+
+"Tell us more about it, please. I've read about the Boy Scouts; but my
+mother would take a fit if she thought I was practicing to become a
+soldier. You see, I had an older brother, who enlisted to go out with
+some of the boys when we had our little fuss about Cuba and the
+Philippines; and poor Frank died in camp of typhoid fever. I'll have a
+hard time winning her over, and the dad, too," remarked Bobolink, sadly.
+
+"Well, that's where you make a big mistake, Bobolink. Over in England,
+where the Boy Scout movement started, it has some connection with the
+army, because there, you see, every fellow expects at some time to serve
+his country as a soldier, or on board a naval vessel. But here in
+America, the movement is one for peace."
+
+"Then what's all the doings about?" asked Nuthin', as if puzzled.
+
+"I know, and Paul is right about it," came from Wallace Carberry, always
+quite a reader of newspapers and magazines.
+
+"Let him tell then. I'm for the game, no matter what it means," cried
+Bobolink.
+
+"And I think Bluff knows something about it, for he said he would do for
+the lowest grade of scout, which is the tenderfoot. But I don't think any
+of you are qualified to take even that degree; for a tenderfoot must
+first be familiar with scout law, sign, salute, and know what his badge
+means; he must know about our national flag, and the usual forms of
+salute due to it; and be able to tie some seven or eight common knots.
+How about that, Bluff?"
+
+"N-n-not guilty!" promptly answered the one addressed.
+
+"Say, that sounds interesting any way. Tell us some more about this,
+Paul!" exclaimed William, always eager to hear of anything that smacked
+of novelty.
+
+"Well, there are two more degrees a fellow can climb up to, a
+second-class scout, and a first-class scout, full fledged. After that, if
+he wants to keep right on there are merit badges to be won for excelling
+in angling, athletics, camping, cooking at the campfire, taxidermy, first
+aid to the injured, handicraft, life saving, path-finding, and a lot
+more."
+
+"Now you've got me stuck on this new game," cried Bobolink, excitedly.
+"The more you explain the better I like the idea. Me for the Boy Scouts,
+fellows!"
+
+"Hear! Hear! Paul, the idea is yours, and we vote unanimously that you
+occupy the exalted position of scout master--I know that every troop has
+to have such a head, and you're better fitted for the job than any fellow
+in town!"
+
+"Yes," laughed Paul, "but unfortunately, I believe a scout master has to
+be over twenty-one years of age."
+
+"Who knows the ways of the open like our Paul? He's the right man in the
+right place. Say, are there any books on the subject, that we can get,
+and learn more about this thing?" asked Wallace, who seemed to be
+particularly well pleased.
+
+"I've already sent for a manual, and expect it by to-morrow; when we can
+find out all about it. But wishing to be posted when I put the question I
+went over the river to Aldine to-day, and saw some of the boys there who
+belong to the Scouts. They made me more anxious than ever to start a
+patrol in our home town."
+
+"But I've seen something about a troop?" remarked Jack Stormways, who,
+Paul thought, seemed unusually sober for a boy ordinarily light-hearted.
+
+"Yes, a troop takes in say, three local posts called patrols, each of
+which has eight members. It is known by a number, as Troop One of Boston;
+and each minor organization takes a name of some animal, such as wildcat
+or fox. If it is called Fox, every boy belonging to it is supposed to be
+able to bark like a fox, so as to be able to signal a comrade while
+scouting in the woods."
+
+"Ginger! but that does sound interesting," declared William.
+
+"It's j-j-just immense, that's w-w-what!" was Bluff's opinion.
+
+"Listen! I heard a laugh as sure as anything!" exclaimed Paul, lifting a
+hand to indicate silence; and every one of the group assumed an attitude
+of expectancy.
+
+As they waited there suddenly came a tremendous crash, as some object
+landed forcibly against the wooden side of the old barn. It was instantly
+followed by a second bang, and others came quick and fast, until the
+noise might be likened to a bombardment from a hostile battery.
+
+"It's the Slavin crowd!" called Bobolink, excitedly jumping to his feet.
+"They followed us here after all, and have been listening to every word!"
+
+"All hands to repel boarders!" shouted Paul; and with a cheer the
+seven boys rushed over to the door, out of which they sprang, bent
+on retaliating on their tormentors.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II
+
+WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A BOY SCOUT
+
+
+"Where are the stone throwers?" shouted the merry member of the Carberry
+Twins, as he danced up and down, eagerly trying to discover some moving
+object in the surrounding darkness.
+
+"Gone like smoke, I guess," laughed Paul, who had really expected
+something of this sort, judging from past experiences with these same
+tormentors.
+
+"Look there, I can see something moving yonder. Get ready to give a
+volley!" cried Nuthin', pointing as he spoke.
+
+"H-h-hold on, f-f-fellows, d-d-don't fire yet! It's only our old d-d-dun
+cow!" gasped Bluff, excitedly; as he waved his arms up and down after the
+manner of a cheer captain at a college football game.
+
+"They've lit out, that's what," grumbled William, who felt as though
+cheated.
+
+"All right, then. It's just as well, for a fight would be a mighty poor
+way of preparing to join the scout movement. You'll learn what I mean
+later on when you hear the twelve points of the law that every fellow
+must subscribe to," observed Paul, seriously.
+
+"What d'ye mean, Paul?" demanded Bobolink, quickly.
+
+"Yes, tell us right now what the twelve rules are," said William.
+
+"I know, for I read all about them a few days ago," remarked Wallace,
+readily.
+
+"All right, then, suppose you call them off. What does a scout promise to
+be if allowed to wear the uniform, Wallace?" asked the leader.
+
+"To be trustworthy, loyal, helpful to others, friendly, courteous, kind,
+obedient to his superiors, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent."
+
+"Why, it doesn't say a single word about fighting!" ejaculated William.
+
+"Because a scout must never fight save as a last resort, and then only to
+save some weak one from punishment. He must be brave to face danger, to
+stop a runaway horse; or jump in and keep another from drowning. Do you
+get on to the meaning of this movement, fellows?" asked Paul, eagerly.
+The more he read about it the greater became his desire to have a hand in
+organizing a Stanhope troop that might compete with those of Aldine and
+Manchester, two rival towns, both on the opposite side of the Bushkill
+River, the former a few miles up-stream, and the latter the same distance
+down.
+
+"We do, and I tell you I like it better and better the more I hear of
+it," said Jack, earnestly. "Why, I just had an idea it meant being junior
+soldiers, and drilling so as to be ready to invade Canada, or repel the
+yellow peril when the little Japs swarmed across the Pacific. Count me
+in, Paul."
+
+"If I can pass the examination I'm going with you, sure," observed
+William.
+
+"All right, but if they take you in just remember that you've got to quit
+your playing tricks on everybody, William," declared the other Carberry
+Twin.
+
+"Listen to him, will you? He's feeling hard on me just because dad gave
+him a touch of the cane last night, thinking it was me. As if I was to
+blame for looking like my brother," the other said, plaintively, though
+chuckling at the same time.
+
+"You know you fixed it so he'd pounce on me. I'm always in hot water
+because you must have your fun. 'Taint fair, and I'd have to be an angel
+not to kick. Oh! I hope you get to be a scout, because then I'll have
+some peace," declared Wallace; but all the others knew very well what a
+deep and abiding affection there really lay between the Carberry Twins.
+
+"Let's go home now. No use staying any longer out here, with Ted Slavin
+and his cronies hanging around, ready to bombard us again. Besides, I
+guess Paul wants to wait till he gets his book before telling us any more
+about the game."
+
+"Right you are, Nuthin'. I only wanted to see how the land lay, and if
+you took to the idea. I'm satisfied already that it's going to make a
+hit, if we can get a few more fellows to join in with us," said Paul.
+
+"I know one good recruit I can drum up--Tom Bates," spoke up Albert.
+
+"And a good addition to the seven now here. That would make our first
+patrol," echoed the leader, quickly.
+
+"How about inviting some of the Slavin crowd to join us?" asked Bobolink.
+
+"Well, perhaps we might pick a couple there; but I think you'll have to
+be getting up early in the morning to manage it," replied Paul,
+meaningly.
+
+"What's that?" asked William.
+
+"Just this. Ted Slavin has heard our plans. You know that he never likes
+to see anybody else pull down the plums. What will he do right away,
+fellows?"
+
+"Go and see his shadow, Ward Kenwood, and get him to put up the money to
+start the ball rolling. My word for it that inside of a week there'll be
+two rival Boy Scout troops in little old Stanhope," remarked Jack
+Stormways.
+
+"Say, that would be great, if the other crowd only acted on the square,"
+ventured William. "We could have all sorts of contests between us. But
+I know Ted Slavin too well to believe he'll ever subscribe to the twelve
+rules Wallace mentioned. Why, he'd have to be made all over again to do
+that."
+
+"Look here, Paul, if a fellow has to live up to the rules, however could
+the members of Ted's company be taken into a troop of Boy Scouts?" asked
+Bobolink, who always sought information.
+
+"I don't believe they ever could. Still, there's no law in the land to
+prevent any lot of boys from forming a patrol, and calling themselves
+scouts. That's my way of looking at it," was the answer the leader gave.
+
+The lads were now on their way home, the lantern having been secured, and
+extinguished, lest it invite another bombardment on the part of their
+tormentors, doubtless still hovering somewhere nearby.
+
+No further attack came, however, for which some of them were possibly
+sorry, particularly William and Bluff, who delighted in strenuous action
+at all times.
+
+On the border of the town the seven separated into three groups, the
+twins going off arm in arm, Bluff, Bobolink and A. Cypher forming
+another; while Paul and his particular chum made up the third.
+
+"Well," said Paul, as they headed for the house of his comrade, which
+chanced to come before his own, "what do you think of my scheme, Jack?"
+
+"Immense, that's what. I'm only astonished that nobody else took up with
+the idea before. Poor old Stanhope seems to be away behind the times,
+Paul."
+
+"Well, I don't know. We've had lots going on this summer to take up our
+time; and then most of us were away during part of the vacation. There
+are other towns just as slow to catch on," returned the other, loyal to
+the place of his birth.
+
+"But now that the ball has been started rolling, just watch how fast it
+gathers force. I know how you go at these things. And of all the fellows
+I ever met, you are the one best fitted to lead in this thing, if I
+understand the game right. Why, it's just going to fit in with the things
+you've preached and practiced for years."
+
+"That's why it appealed so strongly to me, after I really understood what
+the many duties of a scout were supposed to be. But what's the matter
+with you, Jack?"
+
+"Eh? With me? Oh, nothing much, Paul."
+
+But the other knew better, for he had noticed a frown come over Jack's
+usually smiling countenance more than once that evening, when the other
+thought he was not observed; and from this Paul felt positive his chum
+was worrying about something.
+
+"Of course, if you think it best not to take me in on it, I'm the last
+one to bother you, old chap," he went on, when Jack interrupted him.
+
+"It wasn't that, Paul, not in the least. To tell the truth I've been
+thinking it over, and just about made up my mind that I must tell some
+one, or I'd never sleep easy. And of all my friends you're the one
+closest to me. Yes, I'm going to confess that there is something that
+puzzles me, and fills me with alarm."
+
+"Say, is it as bad as that, Jack? But how is it you don't want to go to
+your own folks? You've got one of the best dads I ever knew, and your
+mother, well, few are in the same class with her."
+
+"That's just it, Paul. I'd hate to have either of them know anything
+about this trouble."
+
+Paul swung his friend around so that he could see into his face; for they
+were just passing a street lamp at the time.
+
+"Oh! I can look you in the eyes, old fellow. It isn't anything
+disgraceful I've been doing, not at all. But you see," and again that
+frown darkened Jack's brow as unpleasant things presented themselves
+before his mind's eye, "it's a family affair, I'm afraid, and must be
+kept quiet."
+
+"Now you _have_ got me to guessing good and hard. Suppose you tell me
+what it's all about. I hope your brother, Karl--" and there Paul stopped,
+for by instinct he seemed to feel that he had guessed the truth the first
+shot.
+
+Jack had given a huge sigh that seemed to well up from his heart.
+
+"Yes, it's about Karl, only I do hope that it will prove a false alarm,
+because I just can't believe he'd do such a rotten thing," the other went
+on, slowly.
+
+"But he's only a little fellow after all, Jack?"
+
+"That's so, but old enough to know better. You shall hear it all, and
+then perhaps you'll advise me what to do," went on Paul's chum, with
+a vein of relief in his voice, as though he felt better already, after
+deciding to share his trouble with another.
+
+"That's right, and you know that it goes no further, Jack."
+
+"Karl got into some mischief a week ago, and to punish him father cut off
+his allowance of spending money for a whole month. Now, Karl belongs to a
+boys' club, and I heard that at their last meeting the other day he paid
+up his dues, and seemed to have plenty of money. The question that is
+bothering me is, where did he get it?"
+
+"Oh! is that all? Why, you forget that your brother is a bright chap; and
+I imagine you'll find he's been earning it some way or other; or perhaps
+his mother gave it to him. But see here, there's more back of this than
+you've told me?" declared Paul, suddenly.
+
+"There is," replied his chum. "Listen now, and for goodness sake I hope
+you can cheer me up some, by explaining a mystery that's bothering me.
+It's about those old coins Uncle Reuben sent to me two years ago. There
+are some twenty-one in the lot. They're copper coins, you know and I
+don't suppose worth much. I've always kept them in a little open cedar
+box on my table up in the den; you've spoken about them more than once."
+
+"Sure, I remember all about them; but you don't mean to say--" and there
+Paul stopped, almost afraid to voice the thought that flashed before his
+mind.
+
+"Yes, a bunch of them have gone in a mighty queer way. Why this morning
+there were just fourteen left; but to tell the truth I was afraid to go
+up there at supper time when I came in after our last game of ball on the
+lot, to see if any more had disappeared."
+
+"Say it plainly, Jack. Some one is taking your old coins, sent by your
+uncle, and you're just afraid it's Karl, tempted to get some money in
+that way. But where could he sell them, do you think?"
+
+"There's old Doc. Thomes, who keeps stamps and curios for sale. I've seen
+some coins in his window often. He would know the value of these, and
+perhaps be willing to pay something for them. Oh! it's just awful even to
+suspect my brother of being guilty of such a mean thing. I hate myself
+for allowing it, and have made up my mind just to hide the rest away, and
+never say a word."
+
+"No, I wouldn't do that, Paul. In the first place it isn't fair to Karl."
+
+"Fair? What can you mean? I wouldn't ever say a word to him, never!"
+
+"That's just it, but you would _think_ it always; and if he is innocent,
+why you see what a shame that would be. No, you ought to learn the truth,
+even though determined to keep your mouth shut afterward. In justice to
+Karl, you _must_ know!"
+
+"I believe you are right, old fellow. And I'm going to be guided by what
+you say. Come in with me, won't you?" pleaded Jack.
+
+"Yes," answered Paul, promptly. "On condition that you take me up to your
+den, where we can talk without being disturbed."
+
+"You have an object in saying that. I believe you want to see for
+yourself if any more of my coins have disappeared?" declared the other.
+
+"I acknowledge the corn, for that is just what I wanted to learn, Jack."
+
+"I suppose the sooner I take the bull by the horns, the quicker we can
+learn the truth; so come on in," and taking his chum by the arm Jack led
+the way boldly up to the door of the Stormways' house.
+
+They managed to pass upstairs to the third floor without attracting any
+attention, the family being gathered around a table in the living room,
+reading.
+
+No sooner had the lamp been lighted, after the door was closed, than Paul
+stepped over to the table desk which he knew so well.
+
+Just as Jack had said, there was a little cedar box standing in plain
+view, and the coins it held attracted his eye.
+
+Slowly and deliberately he proceeded to count them, while his chum
+awaited the result with abated breath, and his eyes turned in another
+direction.
+
+"Well?" said Jack, hoarsely, when he saw that the other had dropped all
+of the coins back, one by one.
+
+"You said there were fourteen left this morning, didn't you, Jack?"
+
+"Yes, and now?"
+
+"I find just eight here, that's all!" came the answer that caused the
+wretched brother of young Karl Stormways to shiver and sigh dismally.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III
+
+THE DISAPPEARING COINS
+
+
+"Just thirteen gone now," said Jack, as he bent over to look for himself.
+
+"Of course you know what they were, those that are missing?" suggested
+Paul.
+
+"I have a list of the bunch somewhere; made it out one day just for fun.
+Yes, I think I could tell them again; but I never would have the heart to
+accuse old Doc. Thomes of buying stolen coins; and the thief--never!"
+
+"I didn't mean that, Jack; you mistook me. Suppose I had that list, and
+rooting over all the little boxes he keeps his coins in for sale, found
+every one of the missing ones there?"
+
+"Yes, and then what?" asked the other, greatly affected, though watching
+his chum's face eagerly, as though something seemed to tell him Paul
+would find a way out of the difficulty, such was his faith in the other.
+
+"Why, perhaps you might buy the whole lot back, for almost a song, and
+never say a word."
+
+A hand crept out and squeezed Paul's warmly; and there were tears in the
+eyes of Jack Stormways as he made answer.
+
+"Just like you, old fellow, to cheer me up like that. Here, let me hunt
+up the list for you. But promise that you won't whisper one little hint
+to a living soul. Oh! Karl, how could you?"
+
+"Hold on, don't judge him before you know. Believe him innocent until you
+find proof otherwise. I guess you'll learn that one of the first things a
+scout has to do is to believe in his brothers and friends through thick
+and thin, until the proof has become positive, or the guilty one
+confesses. And another thing, Jack, in case the worst comes true, it's up
+to us to make sure that such a miserable thing never happens again. We
+must save the one in error, save him through kindness and sympathy. How
+old is Karl?"
+
+"A little over ten."
+
+"Too young to join the troop then, for all boys have to be twelve or
+over, according to the rules, I was told. But they have younger fellows
+in the bunch over at Aldine, I'm sure. One I saw strutting around in a
+uniform looked like a kid of eight or nine. Never mind; I believe it'll
+all come out right yet. Perhaps some servant may have taken them?" said
+Paul, wishing to buoy up his chum's spirits.
+
+"We only have one, and she's been with us ever since I was born. No use
+thinking Maggie would touch a single thing," declared Jack, quickly, with
+a shake of his head.
+
+Paul sauntered about the room for a few minutes. Apparently he was
+glancing at the numerous college pennants and other things that were
+upon the walls; but in reality he found himself wrestling with the
+strange puzzle that was giving his chum so much concern.
+
+Presently he stood by the window, which was partly open.
+
+"Who owns the Dempsey house now, Jack?" he asked, indicating the building
+next door.
+
+"Oh! it is still for sale," replied the other. "They don't want to rent
+it again, you know, and ever since that last party moved out of town and
+left things looking so bad, Mr. Dempsey has kept it closed up."
+
+"When he lived here, you and Scissors used to be something of chums,
+didn't you?" Paul went on.
+
+"Well, yes," the other admitted, "when we were smaller. But ever since
+Scissors started going with the Slavin crowd I've cut him dead."
+
+"I wish I lived as close to you as this," Paul observed. "Why, we could
+nearly shake hands across the gap. I don't suppose Scissors ever drops in
+to see you nowadays?"
+
+"I should say not," laughed Jack; "why, we've been at swords points now
+for a year and more, and never even speak as we pass each other."
+
+"Oh! well, of course then it would be silly to think of suspecting him,"
+remarked Paul as he sat down again.
+
+But nevertheless, many times his eyes seemed to turn toward that partly
+opened window, and then in the direction of the low desk where the box of
+coins stood.
+
+"Scissors" Dempsey had come by his nickname because of a peculiar trick
+he had of keeping his knees stiff when walking. Long ago one boy had
+likened his long legs to a pair of scissors, and quick to take up a
+humorous name like this, his mates had called him nothing else in years.
+
+"Well, it's a mighty funny thing where that bunch of old copper coins
+has gone to!" remarked Jack, presently, unable, it seemed, to think of
+anything else just then.
+
+"I believe this den of yours is hardly ever locked," remarked Paul,
+presently, "and all persons can come up here whenever they choose. I've
+even often found your dog Carlo sleeping here. Why, if any friend calls
+to see you, and wants to wait till you come home, he just meanders up
+here as he pleases, and amuses himself looking over your books and
+magazines. Isn't that so, Jack?"
+
+"Sure. My mother says this is Liberty Hall, judging from the way all my
+chums go and come. But what's got you now? Do you think some other chap
+may have fallen into the nasty habit of helping himself to my coins,
+either to swell out his own collection, or to sell them to Doc. Thomes?"
+
+"Oh! hardly that, although it seems possible. But don't worry too much
+about it, Jack. I'm sure we'll discover the truth sooner or later."
+
+"Anyhow I'll have eight to hide away; part of a loaf is better than no
+bread," remarked the other, dejectedly.
+
+"Oh! I wouldn't put them away, not just yet, anyhow, Jack."
+
+"But, my goodness, perhaps I'll lose all of my coins if I leave them
+around like this any longer on my desk!"
+
+"That's so, but don't you see if you hide them, it shuts us off from ever
+learning who is taking them."
+
+"Oh! I see. You mean to catch him at it some time; is that the idea,
+Paul?"
+
+"Nothing less. I'll drop in at the old dealer in curios to-morrow, and
+find out if he has any that are on this list. Listen, there's somebody at
+the door!"
+
+"It's only Carlo, scratching to get in. Open the door, please, Paul."
+
+As the other did so a large Newfoundland dog stalked solemnly in, paid
+little heed to either of the occupants of the den, but snuggled down in
+a corner, where there was an old cushion, evidently placed there for his
+especial use.
+
+"My! he's getting fatter than ever," remarked Paul, surveying the bulging
+sides of the shaggy canine, as he curled himself up as if to sleep.
+
+"I believe he is, the scamp. I see it when I put him through his paces
+with all the tricks I taught him. He's getting too logy, and has to be
+told three times before he'll do a blessed thing. But about this wretched
+matter, Paul--you won't say anything to your folks, will you?"
+
+"Not for the world. It's your secret, and I'd never leak a word without
+your permission. But I must be off now. Leave things just as you always
+have done; and don't shut or lock the door here any more than before.
+I've got to do some studying over this Boy Scout affair when I get
+back. Whitson loaned me some pamphlets, but I didn't have time to read
+them through."
+
+Jack accompanied his friend down to the front door. Here Karl, having
+heard them descending the stairs, joined them; and so far as Paul could
+see there was no change in the boy's manner. If he had done wrong he must
+be clever enough to hide the guilt that lay in his heart, and put on a
+bold face.
+
+"Remember!" was all Paul said as he squeezed Jack's quivering hand,
+before jumping down the steps, boy fashion.
+
+It was enough to encourage the sorely distressed lad, for he had the
+greatest faith in Paul Morrison, the doctor's son, that any boy could
+ever place in a comrade; nor had the other ever failed to equal his
+expectations.
+
+"I really believe Paul will do it," he was muttering to himself as he
+slowly went upstairs again to the den, with its decorations of college
+flags, and pictures of camping, canoeing, outdoor sports such as baseball
+and football struggles, and kindred things so dear to the heart of almost
+every growing lad; "yes, I believe he will if anybody can. But I wish he
+had let me hide the rest of them away. It seems like putting temptation
+in the way of a weak brother. But he told me I wasn't even to believe
+Karl took the coins, and _I won't_!"
+
+Nevertheless, Jack Stormways must have passed a miserable night; for the
+anxious eyes of his mother noticed his distressed looks when he came down
+to breakfast on the following morning.
+
+"You don't look well, son," she observed, as she passed her cool hand
+across his fevered brow; "I think you ought to step in and see Doctor
+Morrison some time this morning, and let him give you something."
+
+"All right, mother; but it's only a little headache," he protested, for
+like all boys he disliked the thought of being considered sick.
+
+Her eyes turned solicitously toward him many times during the meal,
+for she saw that Jack was unusually dull, and took little part in the
+conversation.
+
+But it seemed that Karl made up for his brother's lack of energy, for he
+was more than ordinarily inclined to be merry, and told numerous jokes he
+had heard from his fellows in the boys' club he had joined.
+
+Jack mentioned that they were about to organize a Boy Scout patrol; and
+very naturally his mother looked a bit serious at this news, until he
+explained some of the really excellent points connected with such an
+association; when her face cleared at once.
+
+"If that is what the movement means then the sooner a patrol is organized
+in Stanhope the better. There are a lot of boys who would be vastly
+benefitted by such uplifting resolutions," she declared, with some show
+of enthusiasm.
+
+"Yes, mother, you are right," said Mr. Stormways, just then. "Things have
+been going from bad to worse in our town of late, and the fathers are
+beginning to wonder where it will end. Only yesterday I met old Peleg
+Growdy. You remember the old fellow, for we stopped at his place when we
+were out riding, and had a drink at his well."
+
+"Yes, and a most singular old man he was. I really couldn't say that I
+was much impressed with his looks or conversation," replied the lady, as
+she poured another cup of coffee for her husband.
+
+"All very true; but he minds his own business if let alone; and after all
+I find that he is a well educated man, up in most questions of the day.
+But the boys, or some of them at least, have for a long time considered
+old Peleg a fit subject for practical jokes. They change the lines on his
+team, given half a chance, and annoy him in every way possible. Really, I
+don't wonder he is bitter about it."
+
+"But you had something in mind, father, when you said that you met him?"
+
+Mr. Stormways looked at Jack.
+
+"That is true, my son; and do you know, the first thought that came to me
+was one of pleasure to feel absolutely sure no boy of mine would disgrace
+himself in plaguing an old man who had never harmed him."
+
+Jack felt a glow in the region of his heart at this show of confidence;
+and resolved that more than ever would he merit it; but somehow he could
+not help looking out of the tail of his eye toward Karl, to find that the
+color had mounted to his forehead, and that he seemed embarrassed.
+
+Was he thinking just then of the coins; or did he have some knowledge of
+the practical joke that had been played on old Peleg Growdy?
+
+"Now, tell us what it was, Alan," said Mrs. Stormways, encouragingly.
+
+"Well, perhaps in one way it may have been looked upon as something
+humorous, but it annoyed the old man very much. Last Sunday he went out
+to let his pigs run loose in the lot, as is his habit. When he pulled
+the rope that opened the little door in the back of the pen, he was
+astonished to see the queerest lot of porkers dash away that human eyes
+had ever beheld."
+
+Karl was snickering by now, showing that he must have some knowledge of
+what was to come.
+
+"No two pigs looked alike. The boys had crept into the pen in the night,
+with a lantern, and some pots of paint taken from Mr. Rabow's shop, and
+painted the whole drove in every color imaginable. One, he said, looked
+like the American flag. Another had four legs of different hues; a third
+was striped yellow and green, and so it went. Imagine the old man's
+amazement as he saw them kicking up their legs, and tearing around like
+mad; for the sun had reached the turpentine in the paint, and made it
+burn tremendously."
+
+Karl gave a shout, and even Mrs. Stormways could not repress a smile,
+though she felt that it was wrong.
+
+"I heard about it from one of the boys, father; I don't want to tell his
+name, you see, because it might get him into a scrape," said Karl, as he
+managed to get his breath again.
+
+Jack breathed easier, since he knew now that his brother had not been
+concerned in the adventure; still, there was that other thing--but he had
+promised Paul not to believe, or even suspect, anything so early in the
+game.
+
+"I admit that it does seem ludicrous; and no doubt if I had been there I
+must have been strongly tempted to laugh at the comical spectacle those
+six pigs must have presented. But it is the spirit of the thing that
+looks so bad. Growdy never harmed a boy in his life, he says, and only
+wants to be let alone; but they went out of their way to play a malicious
+trick on the old man. It took him the whole of Sunday to scrape that
+paint off the hides of his pigs; which I consider a pretty hard
+proposition. And I repeat what I said before, that I'm pleased to know
+a son of mine would not be guilty of so mean a trick."
+
+Karl left the table just then, and his brother fancied that he looked a
+bit confused, as though his conscience were troubling him, but then Jack
+hoped he might be mistaken.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV
+
+THE FIRST SCOUT LEADER
+
+
+Paul had said that he would be away the greater part of the day, his
+father having asked him to go to the city on an important errand.
+
+Consequently there was no opportunity for the two chums to confer upon
+any of the matters that were interesting then.
+
+But all the boys had agreed to meet at the house of Nuthin' that evening,
+to plunge deeper into the subject of organizing at least one scout patrol
+in Stanhope.
+
+As usual Paul called for Jack, and as the latter's parents knew what was
+on tap, there was no opposition shown to his going out.
+
+"Has anything happened to-day?" whispered the visitor, as he was joined
+by Jack in the hall.
+
+"Yes, I was out a lot with the fellows, and doing some chores around; but
+I mustered up enough courage just before supper to go upstairs," replied
+the other, his voice giving plain warning as to what was to follow, for
+it showed the strain.
+
+"And counted the coins again, perhaps to find them short, eh, Jack?"
+
+"Well, you said there were eight, and now I can count only six. Why, it's
+getting to be a regular clock-like piece of business. And after what
+father said this morning, too."
+
+"What did he say?" asked Paul.
+
+"Come along. I'll tell you while we're on our way," and Jack gave a
+nervous look over his shoulder, as though afraid lest his brother pop
+out on them unawares.
+
+As they walked slowly along the road he spoke in the affectionate manner
+in which Mr. Stormways had declared his utmost faith in the honesty and
+integrity of his two boys.
+
+"But you're not sure that Karl has anything to do with the disappearing
+coins. Other boys may have been up there to-day?" suggested his friend,
+quickly.
+
+"I asked mother, and she said she didn't remember that any one had come
+to see me. No, the more I think about it the worse I feel. But I guess
+you didn't have any time to see old Doc. Thomes before you went to the
+city, did you?"
+
+"That's just what I did, dropped into his shop, told him I was going down
+to New York on business for dad, and asked if I could do anything for
+him."
+
+"Oh! how bright of you, Paul. And what did he say to that?"
+
+"It seemed to quite tickle the old chap. He said he had a little package
+he wanted to send in to a dealer on Fourteenth Street, and would be glad
+if I took it to him, instead of his sending it by express."
+
+"A package, Paul; did he say what it contained?" demanded the other,
+almost holding his breath with sudden alarm.
+
+"Yes, a lot of old coins he had been buying lately. Now, hold your
+horses, Jack, my boy. He hadn't made it up yet, and I helped him do it.
+There wasn't one of the same kind yours are. He bought the collection of
+Chinese and Japanese coins old Captain Crocker owned. His widow had no
+use for them, and needed the money."
+
+"Oh, you gave me a scare, Paul; but I'm glad you saw them, for I'd always
+imagine mine must have been in the lot; not that I care a bit for the old
+things now; but it was the thought, you know, the terrible suspicion."
+
+"Yes, and while about it I managed to see every old coin Doc. has in his
+shop, for he was pleased to let me root around. And Jack, not a single
+one of your missing pieces has he got, depend on it."
+
+"Oh! well," remarked Jack, arousing himself, "let's try and forget my
+troubles for a while. Unless I get it off my mind I'll lie awake again,
+and then your father, the doctor, will give me some medicine that tastes
+even worse than what he did to-day. Did you get that manual you sent for,
+Paul?" and the speaker resolutely shut his teeth hard together as if
+determined to keep his mind off the harassing subject.
+
+"Yes, it's in my pocket, and seems to be full of meat, too. I haven't had
+much chance to soak it in, but what I did read interested me a whole
+lot," returned the doctor's son.
+
+"Well, I thought of a friend I had over in Manchester, and this afternoon
+I took my wheel and jumped down there, crossing by the bridge. Just as I
+hoped, Landy is a member of the troop there, and he gladly told me all he
+knew about the business. I'm more than ever tickled at the idea of our
+having a branch up here, to compete with the neighboring towns. He told
+me something more that we might consider, too."
+
+"What was that, Jack?"
+
+"You remember Mr. Silas Westervelt, the Quaker of Manchester?"
+
+"Sure. I've often talked with him, and my father is their family doctor,"
+replied Paul, readily enough.
+
+"It seems that he's become interested in this scout movement, which
+he endorses through and through. The result is that he has offered a
+beautiful banner to the organization that can show the highest degree of
+efficiency, and the greatest number of merit marks by Thanksgiving day.
+It's being made now, down in the city."
+
+"That counts us in, then, for we'll have plenty of time to get busy
+before the day of turkey rolls around, eh, Jack?"
+
+"Oh! we'll be in the contest all right, even if we are counted in the
+'also ran' class. These other fellows have been camping this summer, and
+must be up in many of the things that count. But then, they haven't got
+Paul Morrison at the head as scout leader, and that means everything in
+our favor," declared Jack, warmly.
+
+"Please cut that out after this. It's true that I've always been deeply
+interested in many things connected with life in the woods; but you see
+that's only one part of a good scout's credit marks. In fact, there's
+hardly one thing in all the trades and professions that is omitted from
+the list. Only he must _excel_ in all he undertakes. And soon we will
+have to find a young man over twenty-one who will act as our scout
+master."
+
+"Hold up, there's Bobolink hurrying to catch us; and he acts as if he
+might be the bearer of important news," remarked Jack, who had heard a
+hail from the rear, and turned his head to see a flitting form.
+
+The other came up, panting heavily.
+
+"Say, you fellows must have the seven league boots, the way you get over
+ground. And just after I've gone and made away with a monstrous supper,
+too," he managed to say, between gasps. "Let me get my breath, and I've
+got something to tell you."
+
+"Is it about Ted Slavin and his cronies?" asked Paul, suspiciously.
+
+"Hit it the first shot," returned Bobolink; "who told you?"
+
+"Why, I haven't heard a word; only I thought that if there was anything
+going on, Ted would be apt to have a finger in the pie," returned the
+other, grimly.
+
+"Well, he has, all right, as usual. Anyhow his mouthpiece, Ward Kenwood,
+has, and it's the same thing. I was taking something in to the dominie at
+our church (my mother is at the head of a committee, you know) when he
+asked me if I was going to join the new Boy Scout patrol that was being
+organized in Stanhope."
+
+"Whew, but those fellows don't believe in letting the grass grow under
+their feet, do they? Never thought a thing about it till they heard us
+talking matters over; and here they're getting all the credit for being
+first in the field," and Jack shrugged his shoulders ruefully as he
+spoke.
+
+"Didn't I say we'd have to get up early in the morning if we hoped to
+keep from taking their dust? No matter what else you can say about them,
+Ted and his crowd are alive, and wide-awake fellows all the time,"
+returned Paul.
+
+"Well, the minister was some surprised when I told him all about it. He
+said he was delighted, and I guess he meant it too. The more patrols the
+better for the community, he said. And he seemed to know all about the
+meaning of the thing, for he showed me several books along the subject,
+that he promised to lend us."
+
+"Bully for him!" cried Jack, with perhaps more energy than reverence;
+but had the genial old man heard the words he would have felt highly
+complimented, knowing that whoever succeeds in getting the approval of
+live, wide-awake boys must consider himself fortunate indeed.
+
+"There's Nuthin's house," remarked Bobolink, just then.
+
+"And Tom Bates going in, with the Carberry Twins. I hope we can enroll
+a dozen good fellows for a start. The rest will flock over after a bit,
+when they get to know what fine times we expect to have," remarked Paul.
+
+They found that there were just a dozen present, counting A. Cypher, who
+as host was much in evidence. Besides Tom Bates, the new boys were Philip
+Towns, Jud Elderkin, Joe Clausin and Andy Flinn; the latter of Irish
+parentage, but well liked, even though his widowed mother had to take
+in washing to provide food for the numerous mouths dependent on her.
+
+Andy was a particularly bright boy, and many declared that he had a
+future before him, if only he kept away from the one curse of his
+father's life, rum. But as he hated the very word drink, there seemed to
+be little danger that he would be apt to follow in the footsteps of the
+brilliant man who had fallen so early in life, and left a family nearly
+destitute.
+
+"Meeting please come to order," called Paul, after he had been pushed
+into a chair to serve as temporary chairman.
+
+Soon the boys began to go into the details of the projected troop, its
+meaning, what good it might be expected to accomplish, and everything
+connected with the Boy Scout organization.
+
+Paul read page after page from the book he had brought, while the others,
+including the parents of A. Cypher, listened, and applauded at times, as
+some particularly fine point happened to strike them.
+
+"That ought to do for the present," said Paul, finally, as he closed the
+book and beamed upon his mates; "and now, what do you think, fellows?"
+
+"I'm just wild to get started, and more so than ever after hearing all
+about the hundreds of fine things scouts can do. I'm a crank on making
+fires, and I guess I'd qualify right easy for the championship in that
+tournament!" exclaimed William Carberry, his face aglow.
+
+"Yes, and I remember the time he nearly burned our house down, trying to
+start a blaze without a match. He got the fire all right; but there was a
+lively time around there, until the bucket brigade arrived, and slushed
+things down. Oh! you can believe William; he's some on the fire racket,"
+remarked the other Twin, at which there was a roar from those present.
+
+"I move that we write out just what we intend to do, and that all the
+fellows in the room sign it as charter members. Then we'll try to double
+our dozen by a week, and rush things along. We already have enough for
+the first patrol and half a second. If we expect to compete with those
+other troops in the struggle for supremacy we've got to be awake and
+doing."
+
+"You never said truer words, Paul. What sort of a binding agreement had
+we ought to get up?" asked Bobolink, pretending that it was Tom Bates who
+spoke; for really the boy had a wonderful gift of ventriloquism, and
+often amused himself, and his friends as well, by sending his voice into
+strange places, to the wonder of those who were not aware of his tricks.
+
+"I thought that over, and wrote out what I believed would cover the
+ground. If you listen now, I'll read it to you," returned the chairman.
+
+"Hear! hear ye! All keep silent while our honored chairman reads the
+document to which we expect to subscribe our names and seals!" called
+William, pompously.
+
+What Paul had written was simply that those whose names were found below
+had united themselves together with the idea of forming a troop that
+could be connected with the regular Boys Scout organization as
+incorporated.
+
+Then every boy present wrote his name beneath the agreement, after which
+they went into executive session, the parents of A. Cypher being kindly
+but firmly requested to retire from the room, while the election of
+officers proceeded, and other necessary steps were taken to perfect the
+first patrol.
+
+So the first patrol of Stanhope Troop was organized, and consisted of the
+eight originators of the scheme. It was decided to call this the Red Fox
+patrol. As fast as others were arranged for they could take on such names
+as Gray Fox, White Fox and even Black Fox.
+
+Later on they hoped to secure a scout master, but just now with Paul and
+Wallace brimming over with woods' lore, the lack of such an officer would
+not bother them.
+
+The meeting ended in Paul being placed in the honored position of scout
+leader, with the second position being thrust on Jack Stormways, though
+he declared that Wallace Carberry was far better qualified to fill it
+than he ever could be.
+
+But Paul was satisfied to have it so. Jack was his favorite chum; and he
+would be thrown much in his company. Besides, the desire to study up the
+rules, and perfect himself in all that an assistant scout master should
+know, might for a time at least take Jack's thoughts away from the
+subject of his trouble at home.
+
+Before the boys left they were summoned to the dining room, where
+refreshments were placed before them; and when the meeting did finally
+break up every fellow felt deep down in his heart that an important step
+had been taken toward raising the standard of living among the rising
+generation of Stanhope.
+
+Finally, as the hour had grown fairly late it was suggested that they
+leave in a body, since all military organizations did this.
+
+"And," continued the one who had put this idea forward, "while we have
+nothing to do with the army itself, we expect to be governed by certain
+military rules. What say, fellows?"
+
+"Fall in! fall in!"
+
+Out of the door they marched, and down the steps, two by two; Bluff
+Shipley, who was paired with Nuthin', being the lone straggler in the
+rear, since his mate remained at home.
+
+If he experienced the slightest sense of dejection at being compelled to
+walk without a side partner, it was of very brief duration.
+
+Outside it was very dark, and this condition seemed more or less
+heightened by the fact that the eyes of the young scouts had become
+accustomed to the glow of the rooms they had just left.
+
+Consequently there was more or less chance of some one tripping on the
+steps, and pulling others down with him.
+
+"'Ware the fourth step; it's shaky and may throw you, boys!" sang out
+Nuthin'.
+
+Hardly had he spoken than the first pair executed a beautiful forward
+bow, and went down in a heap from the lower step.
+
+"Look out there! A rope!"
+
+Paul had just barely time to give utterance to this warning when the next
+pair found the obstruction for themselves, and came plunging down on top
+of those already landed.
+
+Two more were close behind, so nearly upon the heels of the second pair
+that it was really impossible for them to avoid following in their wake.
+Thus there were by this time six struggling figures at the foot of the
+steps, while the balance of the patrol huddled just above, looking with
+amazement at the dimly seen spectacle.
+
+From somewhere near by, possibly the shelter of some bushes, came gurgles
+of boyish laughter, and jeering words in assumed voices.
+
+No need to tell Paul and his friends to whose kind attention they owed
+this unexpected downfall. Ted Slavin and his backers had not been idle
+while the new patrol was being organized in the home of Nuthin'. They had
+fastened a stout rope across the lower step, and succeeded in tripping
+half of their rivals.
+
+Paul managed to scramble to his feet, hardly knowing whether to laugh, or
+get angry at this practical joke on the part of the opposition.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V
+
+CHECKING A COWARD
+
+
+"It's that Slavin crowd!" exclaimed Jack, as he gained his feet.
+
+"Let's capture some of them, then!" shouted William, always ready for
+battle, as was also Bluff Shipley, whose hands were never bothered with
+impediments as was his speech.
+
+A rush was made for the bushes, and retreating footsteps announced the
+hasty departure of the enemy.
+
+None of the new scouts seemed to care about following very far. They knew
+Ted of old, and feared lest they be drawn into a trap, so that their last
+condition would be really worse than the first.
+
+"No damage done, after all," remarked Paul, as he brushed off his
+clothes; while the others gathered around, and Nuthin' came down to
+secure the treacherous rope.
+
+"Barked my shins some, now; and sooner or later I've just got to take it
+out of that crowd!" muttered William, limping around, and shaking his
+head.
+
+"Better do it soon, then," observed Bobolink, "for after you've taken
+the oath of allegiance to the scouts you dassent tackle a feller without
+losing marks."
+
+"H'm! is that so?" grunted the injured member, regretfully; for to be
+deprived of the boon of fighting would be taking some of the joys of life
+away from the pugnacious Carberry twin.
+
+"Fall in again, boys!" said Paul, cheerily.
+
+"Not the same way, I hope, captain!" ventured Bobolink; at which there
+was a laugh, and the incident seemed closed.
+
+The boys had no doubt but that their rivals must have been observing much
+that went on in the lighted rooms, possibly also trying to catch what was
+being said.
+
+"What of it?" demanded Paul, when some one suggested this; "if they heard
+what I read out of that manual so much the better. Let them subscribe to
+those rules, and life will be worth living alongside Ted and his
+cronies."
+
+"But you see they just can't!" declared Bobolink, quickly.
+
+"Which is to say they won't. All right. Once we get out troop formed,
+public sentiment will be on our side. If they try to worry us the good
+people of Stanhope, backed by the Women's Club, will see to it that the
+nuisance is stopped. Isn't that so, Paul?" remarked Jack, with conviction
+in his voice.
+
+"Them's my sentiments, as some character in fiction used to remark. We
+can afford to laugh at all these little plans to annoy us. Of course, if
+they go too far, why we may have to turn and do something ourselves,"
+said Paul, seriously.
+
+"Bully! Hasten the time!" cried William, ceasing to limp for the moment
+in his new delight.
+
+"Oh! but Paul doesn't mean a regular give and take fight. If we pitch in
+at all, I'm afraid it'll have to be doling out punishment in the way the
+good dad does when he plies the stick and says it hurts him worse than it
+does the bad kid," declared Bobolink; at which there was a roar.
+
+On the following day there was more or less skirmishing about town by
+various eager lads, seeking recruits for the rival troops.
+
+Paul was as busy as a beaver, and at several points conferred with some
+of his followers. He had sent for more manuals, besides a price list of
+uniforms, and other equipments necessary to the complete organization of
+the Fox Patrol and Stanhope Troop No. 1.
+
+Leading citizens began to take an interest in the movement, as they
+grew to understand its true significance. Stanhope seemed to be fairly
+sizzling with a new and novel energy. Even the meeting of the Women's
+Club that afternoon was given up partly to a discussion of the merits of
+the Boy Scout wave then sweeping over the land; and ladies who had been
+decidedly averse to such a thing found their eyes opened to its
+beneficial accompaniments.
+
+As was to be expected, the recruiting was not confined to Paul and his
+chums. Ted Slavin and Ward Kenwood were just as vigorously employed; and
+several times in the course of the day the rivals ran across each other
+while engaged in thus drumming up new subjects for initiation.
+
+On such occasions there was apt to be something in the way of verbal
+fireworks passing between the opposing scouts. Ted Slavin seldom knew how
+to bridle that tongue of his; and Ward Kenwood seemed to be in a nasty
+humor himself.
+
+To tell the truth there had long been a sort of rivalry between Paul and
+Ward over the smiles of pretty Arline Blair; and latterly the high school
+girl seemed to be giving young Morrison more than his share of her
+company.
+
+That afternoon about four o'clock, as Paul and two of his chums were
+passing along one of the side streets of the town they came upon a scene
+that caused a sudden halt.
+
+The blustering voice of Ted Slavin was what first drew their attention;
+and it seemed to come from around the next corner. Then followed a
+quavering voice, pleading in its tone.
+
+Paul looked at his friends, and his brow darkened.
+
+"It's old Mother Martha, the market woman who sells things in her little
+stall around here. And some of those mean skunks are plaguing her, like
+they often do, she tells me, stealing her apples, and laughing at her,
+because she's lame with the rheumatism, and can't chase after 'em!" said
+William, who happened to be one of the trio brought to a halt so
+suddenly.
+
+"Come on, then; we can't stand that!" exclaimed Paul.
+
+The boys hurriedly turned the corner, to find that what William had
+suggested seemed to be the actual truth.
+
+Ted and a follower were hovering near the poor old woman. The fact that
+Ted was contentedly munching a red apple told that he had already made
+his hawk-like descent on the stand of the market woman, and was now
+seeking to distract her attention so that his companion might also swoop
+down to seize a prize, when they would go off, laughing uproarously, as
+though they considered it a huge joke.
+
+Paul was on the bully in a flash, and almost before Ted knew of his
+presence he had torn the apple from his grasp and hurled it far away.
+
+"Get out of this, you coward!" exclaimed the scout leader of the new
+patrol, as he gave Ted Slavin a push; "I'm going to speak to the chief of
+police about the way you rob this good woman, and see if he won't stop
+it. You ought to be ashamed of yourselves, both of you!"
+
+William and Bluff were for jumping at the two offenders, and giving them
+a lesson then and there; but with both arms Paul held his fire-eaters
+back.
+
+"Let 'em come on, if they want to mix up with us. We can take care of
+two, and think it a picnic. P'raps even three wouldn't be too much, if so
+be you want to try it on, Paul Morrison. Huh! there comes another bunch
+of your sissies. Seven against two might make it too interestin', so we'd
+better skip out, Scissors. But you just wait, that's all. I don't forget
+you laid a hand on me; and some time I'm going to take it out."
+
+"Oh! suit yourself, Ted," answered the other, promptly. "I'm ready to
+have a go at you when you're ready, if you force me to the wall. I'm not
+a fighter, but when I see a couple of rowdies treating a poor old woman
+like you did, it makes me see red."
+
+With derisive jeers the pair faded away as several boys came running to
+the spot, having seen the group, and guessing from the presence of the
+two rival leaders that there must be something doing.
+
+Their indignation was boundless when they learned what new meanness the
+coming of Paul and his two chums had interrupted.
+
+It required considerable persuasion on the part of the scout leader to
+prevent an immediate chase of the culprits.
+
+"Let them go this time," said Paul, impressively; "but I'm going to see
+what can be done to put a stop to this rowdyism. It gives the boys of
+Stanhope a bad name all around. I told Ted I'd speak to Chief Billings
+about it."
+
+"You won't get any too much satisfaction there," remarked wise Nuthin';
+"because, you see the Chief owes his position to the political influence
+of Mr. Kenwood; and as Ward runs with Ted he won't dare do anything for
+fear of offending the head of the party. We've just _got_ to find a way
+ourselves to change things."
+
+"Well, I'll ask my father about it. Perhaps he can suggest a plan. He
+used to be a boy himself once, and never forgets it either," was Paul's
+conclusion, as they each bought an apple from the old woman to make her
+forget her recent trouble, and then walked away, followed by her earnest
+thanks.
+
+"Say, but time just crawls along," observed William, dolefully; "because,
+you see, I'm dying to get to work and win some of them merits you told us
+about. Just set me the stunt of making water boil over a fire I have to
+kindle, and I'll do it in three shakes of a lamb's tail. The rest of you
+will be left hull down. And then there's lots of other jobs that look
+good to me. Let's get a move on, and start the ball rolling. When's the
+next meeting, Paul?"
+
+"To-night, and once more at the barn where we were first. This time
+I figure on having nearly twenty present, and that will make things
+interesting."
+
+"Same hour as before--eight o'clock?" asked Bobolink.
+
+"Yes. And if any of you feel that you are qualified to take the
+examination for the first degree, so as to become real tenderfeet in the
+Scouts, why, I'll be in trim to put you through your sprouts," announced
+the leader.
+
+"That hits me," declared William; "for I've been studying to beat the
+band, and believe I'll pass muster with flying colors. Me for the
+tenderfoot class!"
+
+"And I've just used up a whole ball of twine tying all those measly
+knots," declared Nuthin'; after which his face brightened when he added:
+"but I can do every one just like an old jack tar. My dad was once a
+sailor you know, and that's where I've got the bulge on the rest of you.
+So-long, boys; I'm going home to try again."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI
+
+A STRANGE SUGGESTION
+
+
+"Who goes there?"
+
+"A scout of the Red Fox Patrol!"
+
+"Advance scout, and give the countersign!"
+
+A figure came shuffling forward, bent over, and whispered a word in the
+ear of the sentinel at the door of the old tobacco barn.
+
+"Correct! Pass in, scout!" said the one on guard, solemnly.
+
+But William chose to loiter by the door, and watch the gathering of the
+clans, for the boys arrived rapidly after that, usually in pairs.
+
+"Where's the other twin?" asked Paul, seeing William alone.
+
+"Unavoidably detained, Captain. May be on deck later. Here comes another
+bunch," and William stepped aside to allow the sentry to halt Andy Flinn,
+who had arrived in company with Jud Elderkin, the latter as tall and thin
+as the former was fat and pudgy.
+
+"Pass along, gentlemen," sang out William, after the pair had
+successfully stood the test; "the animals went in two by two; the
+elephant and the kangaroo!" and as usual there was a laugh at this
+sally, which applied so aptly to the couple just entering.
+
+"All here now, Paul," announced Jack Stormways, counting noses in the
+light of half a dozen lanterns provided by Mr. Shipley, the owner of the
+barn.
+
+For an hour routine business was transacted.
+
+There were just twenty-one names on the roll now, and all present saving
+two, Wallace Carberry and another. It was decided to organize two patrols
+at once, the first to be under the charge of Paul as scout leader, while
+Jud Elderkin took the Gray Fox crowd.
+
+The more the assembled lads learned concerning the duties and sports of
+the Boy Scouts, the greater became their enthusiasm. As the evening
+progressed they were fairly bubbling over with excitement, and it began
+to look as though the success of the new movement were already assured.
+
+But Paul knew that it must be a constant fight between the natural
+rough-and-ready, give-and-take spirit which almost every boy inherits
+from his ancestors, and the new idea that would have him a hero without
+being a bully or a brawler.
+
+And he was not surprised when, later on, just before they thought of
+breaking up the meeting, William got the floor on the question of a
+personal privilege, and threw a bombshell into the camp.
+
+"I'm going to ask a favor of you fellows," he said; "and you can help me
+break even with that old rooster as well as have some fun. D'ye think
+you can stand the racket?"
+
+The others crowded around, for they knew very well that when William had
+anything to propose it usually meant some frolic. But Paul noticed to his
+surprise that the joker seemed worked up far more than he could ever
+remember seeing him before, and he scented trouble ahead.
+
+"Who is it this time, William? Tell us about it, old fellow! Of course
+we're bound to stand by you through thick and thin. That's one of the
+first duties of a scout, you know. Speak up, and give us a tip!"
+
+It was Jud Elderkin who said this; but that he voiced the sentiments
+of pretty much the entire group could be judged from the chorus of
+exclamations that greeted his aggressive speech.
+
+"It's that old grumpy miser, Peleg Growdy," said the orator, waving his
+hands to emphasize his words. "He never had any use for boys, you know,
+and often says he wonders why the pests were ever born. I don't remember
+doing him any mean thing in my life, but he's got it in for the whole
+creation of boys, I expect."
+
+"What did he do to you?"
+
+"Yes, tell us, William. We'll stand by you, never fear."
+
+"He needs a good lesson, the old skinflint. Tell us what happened!"
+
+William grinned, for he saw that he had already captured the hearts
+of his comrades, and had small need to fear they would let him seek
+satisfaction alone.
+
+Jack Stormways was as deeply interested in the outcome as his chum Paul.
+
+He remembered all his father had said at the breakfast table on the
+preceding day, in connection with this same man Growdy.
+
+William was proceeding to thrill his hearers some more. To hear him talk
+one might imagine his father was a celebrated lawyer instead of the town
+blacksmith, for William had a smooth tongue.
+
+"I guess all of you know by this time what some fellers did to Growdy's
+pigs last Saturday night, painting 'em to beat the band? It's the talk
+of the town, and lots of folks says that it serves the old crusty just
+right. But I was tucked away in my little bed alongside t'other twin that
+night, as snug as two bugs in a rug; and consequently had my little
+_alibi_ ready to prove I wasn't in the bunch that paid him that sly
+visit."
+
+"Oh! we all know who did it, never fear!" cried Joe Clausin.
+
+"He spells his name T-e-d!" echoed Bobolink.
+
+"All right. Because some bad boys played that joke on old Growdy he seems
+to have it in for every mother's son in Stanhope. I met him on the road
+this afternoon when I was out with a light wagon after some feed. He was
+on the way to town to deliver a big load of truck. Everybody's entitled
+to half the road; ain't that the law, fellers?"
+
+"Sure it is, William; but that mean man wouldn't budge for you, hey?"
+said Jud.
+
+"Not for an inch. Just hauled up there taking two-thirds of the road, and
+started to light his pipe. I was in a hurry to get along, and thought
+I could just squeeze by; but I made a mistake, and my wagon got upset in
+the ditch. He went on, grinning at my trouble, and never offering to
+raise a hand to help me out."
+
+Exclamations of indignation arose on all sides.
+
+"He needs another lesson, boys!"
+
+"Say the word, William, and we're with you. Guess I might think up a few
+ways for you to get even with the old skinflint!"
+
+Paul saw that they were rapidly being swayed by their feelings of natural
+resentment. He had no particular reason for liking Peleg Growdy any more
+than the balance of the group; but the lesson of returning good for evil
+had taken full possession of his soul.
+
+Once he would have been only too ready to join in with his chums in
+redressing what seemed to be a positive wrong; but somehow it was
+different now.
+
+Before he could speak, however, Jack had elbowed his way into the midst
+of the excited lads, his face full of determination.
+
+"Wait a bit, you fellows, before you decide what you're going to do.
+I want to tell you something that ought to interest you."
+
+"All right, Jack; speak up. Any objection to joining in with us and
+having a little fun while we help a brother even up his score?" demanded
+a voice.
+
+Then Jack repeated as well as he was able the conversation that had taken
+place at the breakfast table in his house. He went even further than
+this, for it happened that he knew something about the old man's past.
+
+"Peleg Growdy is a crabbed old chap, I admit; but perhaps you wouldn't
+blame him so much if you knew the trouble he has had."
+
+"What was that?" asked one boy.
+
+"His wife and two children were burned to death when his house caught
+fire many years ago. Another child grew up to be a man, and committed
+some crime that made him run away. His last one, a daughter, was killed
+in a railroad wreck. Ever since then the old man shuns people, and just
+works as if he never wanted to know a living soul."
+
+"That's tough, for a fact!" admitted one boy, slowly.
+
+"But it don't excuse him for hating all boys. What business did he have
+sitting there and taking two-thirds of the road, to let William upset in
+the ditch trying to pass him?" demanded Jud, still rebelling.
+
+"Oh! well, that's a rule of the road that isn't always carried out. For
+instance, the loaded vehicle is generally given _more_ than its half; and
+William admits he was going light, while the old man carried a heavy
+load," said Jack.
+
+"Yes, that's so," grunted William, unable to hold out against such logic.
+
+"And perhaps, if he told the actual truth, William would admit that there
+was room enough for him to pass, if he had been a little more careful!"
+
+"Sure; but I was in a hurry, you understand; and didn't see that the edge
+of the ditch was crumbly. But he laughed, I tell you, and that riled me!"
+
+"And now you want to bring a dozen and more of your friends down on his
+place to commit some prank that will make him dislike boys more than
+ever. It's all wrong, I tell you, fellows, and for one I refuse to lend
+a hand," and Jack folded his arms as though his mind were made up once
+and for all.
+
+Paul saw that they were very near a division that might be fatal to the
+future good of the cause. He wondered whether he could swing the crowd
+to the other side, like the pendulum of a clock. It would take
+considerable eloquence, as well as all his powers of leadership to
+accomplish it; but the crisis was upon them, and he would be false to
+himself if he did not meet the issue squarely.
+
+"Will you listen to me, fellows?" he said, quietly, stepping forward to
+occupy the place just vacated by Jack, and managing to whisper to the
+other in passing: "back me up for all you're worth, and we may win the
+day!"
+
+"Of course we will! You're the scout leader, Paul, and when you hatch up
+any game it's sure to be worth the powder. Let her go!" came from Jud,
+who seemed to be a sort of ringleader in this little rebellion in the
+camp.
+
+"All right, boys. I'm going to make a proposition that will take your
+breath away; but I have strong hopes that after what you've listened to
+from that manual to-night, you'll be ready to back me up," continued
+Paul.
+
+"We believe in you, Paul. You never fooled us yet; and you never will.
+What's your queer game?" asked Bobolink, ready to swing over already,
+such was his faith in the one they had elected their leader.
+
+The boys crowded around Paul, more than eager to hear what his proposal
+might turn out to be; for novelty always appeals to the average lad.
+
+"All of you know that old Peleg keeps his dooryard in a horrible
+condition. Why, my mother says she doesn't believe it has been cleaned
+up in years; and he hardly ever takes the trouble to even put his wagons
+and that old buggy in the shed. It's a disgrace to the town to have him
+so near. I've heard that the women talked about asking him to do
+something to make it look cleaner."
+
+"He's a stubborn old man, and can't be driven, my dad says," remarked
+Jud.
+
+"Now here's what I'm going to propose. You know he's pretty deaf, and
+can't hear much that goes on. He used to have a savage dog, but it died
+a couple of weeks ago, and since then he's been trying to get another,
+but so far without success. Get that?"
+
+"Yes, but go on, Paul," demanded Bobolink.
+
+"Let's go over to Peleg's in a body," continued the scout leader; "and
+while he sleeps clean up that dooryard of his so that in the morning
+he'll just rub his eyes and begin to think the fairies have paid him
+a visit in the night. And when he learns who did it perhaps he may feel
+something like you did, William. Don't you see, _it'll be rubbing it in
+good and hard_!"
+
+Paul waited to see how his suggestion took.
+
+The boys stared at each other in amazement. It is doubtful whether a
+parcel of wide-awake lads ever before had such a novel proposition made
+to them. And perhaps it was the sensational character of the appeal that
+stirred them more than any desire to return good for evil.
+
+"Count me in that job, Paul," said Jack positively.
+
+He had timed his interruption with exceeding cleverness. Boys are like
+sheep, and given a bell wether they will follow blindly where the leader
+goes.
+
+"Me too!" cried Bobolink, quickly.
+
+"Ditto! I'm for the game just as Paul says!" exclaimed Nuthin'.
+
+And every one in the crowd followed suit, laughing at the idea of their
+turning the tables on the old farmer in such an unheard-of fashion;
+though several doubtless secretly scoffed at the project, and only agreed
+because it seemed to be a necessary evil if they wanted to become Boy
+Scouts.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII
+
+THE TRAP THAT PELEG SET
+
+
+"There's Growdy's shack and barns!"
+
+"Don't seem to be anything stirring, fellows!"
+
+"Look out for a trap. Once bitten, twice shy. Perhaps he's just laying
+for some fellers to come along, and play some more paintin' job trick.
+I heard that he said he would find some way to stop the nuisance!"
+
+This from "Red" Betts, who was known as a cautious chap, and able to
+vanish at the first sign of danger better than any fellow in town.
+
+"Suppose we hold up here, and send out scouts to see how the land lies?
+That's the military way of doing it," ventured Bobolink.
+
+"A good idea, and I appoint you, Bobolink, with Jud Elderkin, to carry
+out the little business," remarked Paul, in a low tone.
+
+"Trot along, you chaps; the rest of us will bunk right here alongside
+the road and wait till you report," and suiting the action to his words
+William dropped in his tracks.
+
+A brief time elapsed, and then the pair of spies returned.
+
+"Not a single light in the house, and the coast clear, fellows; so come
+on!" and Jud waved his long arms as though enjoying his brief assumption
+of authority to the limit.
+
+It would have doubtless astonished the old farmer had he chanced upon the
+scene just then. A young moon hung in the western sky, and while giving
+little light, still the figures of some score of stooping boys might have
+been discovered, advancing in broken formation along the road.
+
+The leader silently opened the gate leading to the dooryard of Growdy's
+place. His barns stood near the house, so that the confusion which
+reigned was all the more noticeable. Its equal had never been known
+around Stanhope; and could only be expected in the case of a place where
+a woman's influence for cleanliness had been totally absent during the
+past ten years.
+
+Over to the stable went some of the boys.
+
+Paul had talked it all over with them as they walked, and each knew what
+part he was to take in the general clean-up.
+
+To some of them it was simply another form of a lark. Boys are queer
+creatures even to those who imagine they know them well. They must be
+doing something all the time. Once get them started in the right
+direction, and they will labor just as sturdily to bring about a good
+object, as under other conditions, they would work to play a joke. It all
+depends on how they begin. And thanks to the sagacity of Paul, he had
+succeeded in interesting them in the novelty of his proposal.
+
+Some secured rakes and hoes, and began to systematically gather up the
+scattered loose material that covered the place, ankle deep. Others
+pushed the wagons, and the old dilapidated buggy, back into the shed in
+systematic order.
+
+They worked like busy bees, chuckling, whispering and evidently getting
+considerable fun out of the strange frolic.
+
+Paul himself went over the job to make sure that it had been thoroughly
+done, and that nothing remained uncared for.
+
+Up to this time fortune had favored the busy workers, since no sound had
+come about to betray their presence.
+
+"How is it, Paul?" asked Jack Stormways, as he ran across the other in
+making his rounds.
+
+"About at the end. The boys are putting the old tools back where they
+found them; and then we can go home. It's the best half hour's work
+any of us have done for a good while, I tell you, Jack."
+
+"Some of the boys don't seem to think it quite so funny now as when they
+started in. They say they can't see where the pay is going to come in,
+and have begun to grumble," whispered the other.
+
+"Perhaps it never will, and again, who knows what might come out of this?
+Anyhow, the ladies will be glad to see this dirty place clean for once.
+Some others I know may take a notion that if Old Growdy can clean up they
+ought to. Listen! what in the world is that?"
+
+A rattling of tin pans came to their ears, as if one of the boys in
+prowling around had accidently upset a bench on which a milk bucket and
+some flat tinware had been airing.
+
+"That settles it! He'll hear all that row and be out on us in a jiffy!"
+said Paul, annoyed because the affair had not gone off according to
+schedule.
+
+"Look! there's a light sprung up inside the house. He's getting his
+trousers on, all right, and the sooner we skip out the better!" declared
+Jack.
+
+The boys now came running from every direction, while sounds from within
+the nearby farmhouse told that Old Peleg must be switching on his heavy
+boots.
+
+So Paul, knowing that the only thing left now was a hasty flight, gave
+the signal arranged for. It meant every fellow for himself until they
+had put a reasonable distance between themselves and the seat of danger.
+Then they could meet at a given place, and go home, laughing over the
+whole affair, and wondering what Peleg would think when he saw what a
+miraculous transformation had taken place while he slept.
+
+Paul happened to be the very last to run away. Instead of passing out by
+way of the gate as most of the others did, Paul started to pass over the
+fence at an inviting point, where two of the bars seemed to be down, and
+he could gain the adjoining woodlot, from which he might reach the road
+at his pleasure.
+
+But alas! the best of plans often go amiss. And that gap that yawned in
+the fence proved a delusion and a snare.
+
+Hardly had Paul made the jump over the two lower bars than he found
+himself suddenly jerked down, and his head came with a crash on the
+ground, causing him to see a myriad of stars.
+
+Nor was this all. An unknown power at the same time seemed to lift his
+lower extremities up in the air at least two feet, so that he appeared to
+be trying to swim on dry land.
+
+For a moment he was puzzled to account for this remarkable happening;
+but as his head cleared a bit, and the stars ceased to shoot before his
+mental vision, he began to get an idea as to what had happened.
+
+Apparently the fellows who had painted the farmer's pigs on the other
+night must have entered his place from the woods, and through this gap
+in the fence.
+
+Old Peleg had remembered, and anticipating another invasion sooner or
+later, he had succeeded in arranging some sort of ingenious trap on the
+spot.
+
+In jumping Paul had set off the trigger, with the consequence that a
+noose had instantly tightened around his ankles, and a hogshead partly
+filled with stones, starting to roll down the slope, had drawn his legs
+upward.
+
+Well, at any rate there he was, clinging to the grass, and with an unseen
+force pulling at his elevated feet, so that he was helpless to assist
+himself.
+
+It was very funny, no doubt, but Paul hardly felt like laughing, just
+then. He tried to wriggle around so as to get at the loop, in the hope
+that he might loosen the same; but all his efforts were wasted.
+
+Old Peleg had builded better than he expected when he set that trap in
+which to catch his tormentors.
+
+He was coming now to see the result of his cunning. No doubt he had heard
+the tremendous rattle as the bulging barrel of stones started to roll
+down the slope after being liberated; for even a deaf man could hardly
+have missed that racket. Lantern in hand he was even now hobbling along,
+chuckling in anticipation of what he would find in his trap.
+
+Closer came the limping farmer. Paul saw now that he held a vicious black
+whip in his right hand, while gripping a lighted lantern in the other.
+
+Laughter in the distance told that the boys had all taken themselves off.
+They could not suspect what a dire calamity had befallen their leader, or
+a rescue party must have certainly been formed.
+
+Another minute and Peleg had arrived at the fence, and bending over held
+the lantern so that its light fell upon the figure of his captive.
+
+"Gut ye, have I? Mebbe ye'll try to paint some critters of mine agin, an'
+mebbe ye won't!" said the farmer, as he raised the ugly black whip which
+he held, with the evident intention of bringing it down good and hard on
+the helpless boy.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII
+
+TURNING THE TABLES
+
+
+"Wait, Mr. Growdy!" Paul hastened to exclaim.
+
+The old man laughed harshly as he flourished the whip. Perhaps he had
+never struck a boy before in all his life, and hardly knew how to begin;
+but his temper was plainly disturbed, and he meant to make a start.
+
+"What should I wait fur, when I cort ye in the very act? Paint my
+critters red, white an' blue, will ye? P'raps ye wanted to pull all the
+feathers out o' my flock o' chickens this time, an' think it funny. Sarve
+ye right if I gi'e ye a dozen stripes!"
+
+"Mr. Growdy, I did you a favor once!" said the prisoner of the trap,
+wishing to keep the old man as long as possible from starting operations.
+
+"Say ye so? Wall, this wipes it out then. Who air ye, anyway?"
+
+The farmer bent lower, and thrust his lantern so that its light would
+fall upon the face of the boy. Immediately he uttered a grunt, for it was
+plain that he had recognized his captive.
+
+"So, it's ye, is it, Paul Morrison? This is some surprise, seein' as
+ye're the last boy I'd expect to be up ter sech meanness. What d'ye think
+yer father'll say w'en he hears 'bout this?"
+
+"I guess he'll laugh, and say it was about the cutest trick ever played
+on you, Mr. Growdy," came the immediate answer; "but please get me down
+from this. Perhaps the blood will all run to my head. Tie my hands if you
+want, and fix it so I can't run away; but I couldn't stand this long."
+
+"So ye think yer father'd larf, do ye? I never wud 'a' b'lieved Doctor
+Morrison was the kind o' man to encourage practical jokes on anybody,"
+grumbled the old man, plainly at a loss to understand what was meant.
+
+"Well, he isn't, and I'd be sorry to have him know I was guilty of such
+a thing. But you're barking up the wrong tree, Mr. Growdy, I give you my
+word we none of us had any trick in mind when we came here to-night."
+
+"Then what took you in my dooryard here; for I heard a pack runnin' away
+when I kim out of the house? Tell me that, Paul," insisted the farmer;
+but the hand that held that cruel looking whip had fallen to his side,
+which was a good sign.
+
+"I'll be only too glad to do so if you let me up. Tie my hands, my legs
+too if you want, sir; but I'm getting dizzy from having my head below
+my heels."
+
+Peleg stooped still closer. He again held the lantern down so that he
+could look into the face of his prisoner; after which he did something
+that Paul had hardly expected--bent over, seized the rope connected with
+the laden hogshead, and pulling hard succeeded in casting the loop that
+had just encircled Paul's ankles, over a post of the fence.
+
+"Get up, Paul!" he said, grimly, yet with a flicker of curiosity in his
+wrinkled face; as though a dim suspicion that there might be something
+out of the ordinary back of this, had begun to take possession of his
+mind.
+
+Paul regained his feet, a little wobbly to be sure, for he had
+experienced a bad fall, and his head felt rather tender where it had
+come in contact with the hard ground.
+
+"Thank you, Mr. Growdy. And now I'm going to tell you something. Perhaps
+you will find it hard to believe me, and again you may not just
+appreciate our way of taking matters in our own hands, when the request
+of the women of Stanhope didn't have any effect. Look around your
+dooryard, Mr. Growdy. Do you see anything changed here?"
+
+The farmer held up the lantern, and what he saw caused him to utter an
+exclamation.
+
+"Ev'ry one o' 'em gone, by hokey! If so be ye've smashed all my rigs,
+Paul Morison, I'll have the law on ye, as sure as my name's Peleg
+Growdy!" he roared, aghast at what he deemed a serious discovery.
+
+"Come with me, Mr. Growdy. Notice as you go that this place doesn't look
+much like a pigpen now. In fact, I calculate it's as clean as any
+dooryard around Stanhope. Even the ladies can drive past now without
+being shocked. And Mr. Growdy, if you will take the trouble, sir, to look
+under that wagon shed, you'll see every one of your vehicles just where
+they should be when not in use!"
+
+The old man stared, as well he might.
+
+"By gum!" Paul heard him mutter; and the words seemed to express the
+situation so well that the boy could hardly keep from laughing outright.
+
+Finally the puzzled farmer turned and looked at the lad who stood there
+beside him. Easily might Paul have made his escape at any time now; but
+that was really the last thing he thought of doing. He would much rather
+remain and see the bewilderment of Peleg Growdy reach its conclusion.
+
+"Look here, Paul, what's this hull thing mean?" finally demanded the
+farmer.
+
+And Paul, remembering the fact that the old man was hard of hearing,
+raised his voice as he thought fit when making reply.
+
+"Do you want me to tell you the whole thing, sir?"
+
+"I sartin do, every word. Blest if I kin make head or tail out o' it.
+Reckons as how them leetle fairy twins ye read about must 'a' ben workin'
+wile I slept; er else I'm dreamin' things that caint be true."
+
+"Listen, Mr. Growdy," Paul went on. "Perhaps you may not know that we
+have started a troop of the Boy Scouts here in Stanhope. Some twenty of
+us have joined, and later on we hope to get uniforms, and other things
+needed, when we have earned the money to buy them. Those boys you heard
+running away were my friends and comrades, every one going to be a true
+scout."
+
+"Soldier bummers then, out on a raid, and ready to kerry off everything
+they kin lay hands on," grumbled the old man, still unable to grasp the
+true condition of affairs.
+
+"At a meeting to-night in Mr. Shipley's barn we made further progress
+looking to perfecting our organization. But boys will be boys, you know;
+and one of our number asked the rest to help him get even with you,
+because you forced him into the ditch this afternoon, upsetting his
+wagon."
+
+Old Growdy moved uneasily.
+
+"I was real sorry to see William do that. If he'd only waited till I
+lighted my pipe I 'spected to pull out a leetle more, so's to let him git
+by; but he was that impatient he must push on," he said.
+
+"Just as I thought. Well, Mr. Growdy, one of the rules of the scouts is
+that a member must never return an evil deed by another of the same kind.
+I proposed that we try to make you change your mind about detesting all
+boys. So we came here, not to paint your pigs as some other fellows did,
+I'm told; not to let your stock loose, or run off with your wagons; but
+to clean up your dooryard, and give you the greatest surprise of your
+life when you came out in the morning!"
+
+"Sho! now. That takes the cake!"
+
+"When one of my chums upset that bench by accident, and the pans fell
+with a racket, of course it gave the whole thing away, and we started to
+run; but unfortunately I happened to drop into your nice little trap, and
+you found me upside down. That is all, Mr. Growdy. Do you want to whip me
+now, or take me in to the lockup, which?"
+
+Peleg Growdy found himself strangely thrilled as he looked into that
+frank, smiling face of Paul Morrison.
+
+For almost a full minute they stood thus.
+
+Then Peleg spoke.
+
+"Reckon as how them comrades o' yers must 'a' gut a long start by now,
+Paul. S'pose ye see if ye kin ketch up with 'em, son."
+
+That was all, but as Paul hurried off he was conscious of a strange
+feeling deep down in his breast; and he felt sure that after all it had
+paid. Peleg Growdy at least had met with the surprise of his life. After
+this possibly his ideas of juvenile depravity might undergo a violent
+change; for such positive natures as his usually swing from one extreme
+to the other, just like the pendulum of a grandfather clock.
+
+Paul did not catch up with his fleeing comrades, for they had secured
+too good a start. When he reached the rendezvous, however, he found them
+there, one and all, and wondering what could have happened to detain him.
+
+Loud were the expressions of astonishment as he calmly announced that
+having been caught in a trap, he had held a face to face talk with Peleg
+Growdy himself; when he managed to relate the whole surprising adventure
+the boys were stunned at the possible consequences of their little prank.
+
+Those who had considered it only in the light of a joke began to see that
+Paul had something deeper in mind when he proposed such a thing.
+
+All the way home Paul was kept busy repeating some of the things he had
+said to the irate farmer. It gave those lads something to ponder over
+when by themselves. Possibly they had never before realized what a
+powerful lever for good such a method of returning a grudge may become.
+
+Paul himself was delighted. Even if nothing more came of it he could look
+back to the little adventure with satisfaction such as Ted Slavin and
+his cronies might never feel with regard to their prank.
+
+And the next morning Paul was not at all ashamed to relate the entire
+circumstance at the breakfast table. He felt amply repaid when he saw the
+look of pride upon his mother's face, as she turned her eyes, filled with
+unshed tears, upon him and said gently:
+
+"I am glad you did it, Paul. I know the history of poor Peleg Growdy; and
+surely he has had enough of trouble during his life to make him different
+from the rest of his kind. The milk of human kindness has perhaps been
+dried up in his breast; yet who knows, my boy, but that you may have set
+him to thinking by that one little act of yours. I shall never fear for
+you, Paul, whatever betides."
+
+His father, the doctor, was a man of few words; but that morning when he
+was going off on his round of visits he did an unusual thing--took Paul's
+hand, and gave it an affectionate squeeze, while the look that
+accompanied the action needed no further explanation.
+
+And Paul was many times satisfied.
+
+That day and others saw a growing buzz of excitement in the town of
+Stanhope. It seemed as though nearly every boy over the age of twelve,
+yes and even under, might be filled with a burning zeal to join the new
+troops that were being started under two different scout leaders.
+
+Ward Kenwood had entered heart and soul into the work, which seemed to
+appeal to him; but there were those who secretly believed he was more
+concerned about opposing his rival, Paul Morrison, than in building up
+a second troop of scouts that would be a credit to the place.
+
+Ted Slavin, of course, worked hand in glove with his friend, Ward. If
+money counted for anything they had no reason to complain; for inside of
+a week there blossomed out numerous boys clad in the new khaki uniforms
+that distinguish the Boy Scouts everywhere.
+
+Some of Paul's friends felt grieved because they had failed to get their
+equipments as soon as the others; but nothing could disturb the scout
+leader.
+
+"You'll see that they are bound to meet up with a snag when they apply
+for admission to the real organization. They can't subscribe to many of
+the rules. Then again you know that the real scout scorns to receive his
+uniform as a gift. Everything he owns must be earned. But most of us are
+nearly ready to send for suits. Wait a little longer. The race is not
+always to the swift."
+
+In this fashion then did wise Paul bring peace to the troubled hearts of
+those anxious ones. Never a member of the new Fox Patrols that sought an
+interview with the scout leader but who came away feeling that there was
+not a cloud in the sky of their future.
+
+In this manner a week, and then ten days, drifted along, with the opening
+of school looming up in the near future.
+
+Paul had almost forgotten the troubles of his chum when one day he had
+the fact suddenly brought to his attention again, as Jack came upon him
+with a face upon which rested the same old cloud of anxiety and grief.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX
+
+"WELL DONE, MY BOY!"
+
+
+"There, some more gone, Paul!"
+
+"But it's nearly ten days since we talked it over last, and then there
+were, let me see, I believe six coins left," returned the other, quickly.
+
+"That's true enough. And I can see now that you're wondering why none
+have been taken all this time, up to to-day," remarked Jack, as he came
+alongside his chum, who was looking in at a window where sporting goods
+made a brave display.
+
+"Will Carlo hang around and wait for you a bit?" asked Paul, looking with
+a smile toward the big Newfoundland dog that had been trotting at the
+heels of his young master, carrying a basket, in which were several
+packages from the store.
+
+"Sure. He's well trained, and that is one of the smallest of his stunts,
+as you know. See, he has laid the basket down, and stands guard over it.
+I dare any dog in Stanhope to try and take it away. Now, you want to know
+about my poor old batch of coins!"
+
+"I'm waiting to hear, old fellow," said Paul, tenderly; for he could see
+that his chum was once again highly charged with emotion.
+
+"I thought I'd try a scheme unbeknown to you," began the other, slowly.
+
+"Perhaps I can guess what you did--was it that you locked the door of
+your little den, Jack?"
+
+"Well, now, you are a champion guesser, for that was just what I did,
+every day up to this one--shut down the window, locked the door, and
+never went up there once," replied his comrade, with surprise written
+on his face.
+
+"And nothing was missing?"
+
+"Not a coin. I counted six myself this morning when I went upstairs just
+to get something out of the snuggery."
+
+"Did you forget to lock it after you, Jack?"
+
+"No; but an idea came to me. At the time I thought it a bright one; but
+now I'm more than half sorry I ever tried it."
+
+"Oh! then you left the door unlocked again on purpose?"
+
+"Yes, and with the window open, at that. The invitation was plain
+enough," murmured Jack, with dejection in his voice and manner.
+
+Paul seemed to ponder over the matter; and indeed it was quite enough to
+try any boy's wits.
+
+"Do you happen to know if any fellow called to see you to-day while you
+were out?" he asked, presently.
+
+"Now, I thought of that, and asked both my brother and Maggie to pay
+particular attention to it, if any boy stopped over, hoping I would come
+in."
+
+"Nothing doing?"
+
+"It's kind of queer, but do you know, for a wonder not a single fellow
+has been at our house this blessed day. Generally half a dozen call to
+see me, you know, to borrow books from my library, or talk over matters
+connected with our school society. It just looks as if everything wanted
+to mix me up worse than ever, and make me think--"
+
+"Never mind what it makes you think," interrupted Paul, quickly,
+squeezing the arm of his chum affectionately; "let's get down to facts.
+You know I promised that I'd find out the truth about this matter; and
+while up to now I've given it mighty little attention, don't think that
+I've forgotten, Jack."
+
+"I don't; only it bothers me to understand how you can ever expect to
+find out who's taking my old coins, if I've made a mess of it; and living
+in the house at that!" rejoined the other, with bewilderment plainly
+visible on his face.
+
+"Leave that to me. I repeat my promise, and if everything else fails why,
+what's going to hinder my hiding up there behind some of your stuff,
+where I can see for myself what happens?"
+
+"Oh!" exclaimed Jack, "that would be a clever idea; but much as I want to
+know the truth, I'm afraid to!"
+
+"Well, you've got to get over that feeling. No matter what happens it's
+far better to know the worst; for then it may be remedied. I've heard my
+father tell of many a desperate case where only heroic treatment, as he
+called it, brought his patient through. We've just got to try it here,
+Jack, old fellow. Hello! what d'ye suppose all that row's about?"
+
+"Sounds to me like a runaway horse, from the shouts," declared Jack,
+quickly forgetting his own personal troubles in the new excitement.
+
+"Look! There's the runaway, and coming this way around the corner. Oh! it
+was nearly over that time! My heart was in my mouth!" cried Paul.
+
+"There's some one in the wagon, Paul, a little child!" almost shrieked
+Jack; for the clamor was deafening by now, and ordinary sounds could
+never have been heard.
+
+No need to tell Paul that. He had just made the astounding discovery
+himself, and was thrilled with sudden horror.
+
+It was a little boy who was tugging at the lines with a heroism worthy of
+one twice his size; but such a young person could make no impression on
+the hard mouth of that terrorized animal.
+
+In the sudden whirl around the corner the lad had come very near being
+thrown but, and was even now unsteadily trying to regain his balance.
+
+Paul knew that it was an occasion for quick thinking, and even faster
+doing!
+
+He bounded away from the side of his chum as though on springs, leaving
+Jack standing there on the curb, filled with eager anticipation, and
+fears.
+
+It was not _toward_ the rapidly advancing horse that the boy ran, but in
+exactly the opposite direction, as though he were being chased. With the
+wagon flinging about from side to side, and hindering the progress of the
+runaway to some extent, Paul believed that he could almost hold his own
+in the race.
+
+Little by little he meant to let the horse overtake him. Then, at just
+the right second his chance would come to jump at the animal's head,
+seize upon the lines close to the bit, and throw his entire weight upon
+them.
+
+He knew that it called for good judgment, since the slightest mistake
+would be apt to cost him dear. To be thrown under the iron-shod hoofs of
+the galloping animal might mean making him a cripple for the rest of his
+life.
+
+Even that possibility did not daunt Paul. He only saw the frightened face
+of the little chap who so valorously clung to the lines, and shouted
+shrilly at the top of his childish voice, as though expecting the usually
+tractable horse to mind.
+
+A human life in peril--that was one of the cardinal points that must call
+for action on the part of a true Boy Scout. He might refuse to engage in
+a sanguinary battle with some rival who had dared him to a fight; but
+under no conditions must he hold back when the chance offered to do a
+good deed.
+
+Now the horse was just behind him, and still galloping furiously. If
+anything, the animal was making more desperate headway than ever, for
+the outcries on every side seemed to add to his fright.
+
+Every eye was focussed on the runner. One man in a vehicle had drawn in
+his horse, and with white cheeks watched the remarkable scene.
+
+If any among that throng had reason to send up a silent prayer for the
+safety of that daring lad just then, surely he might. For the man in the
+buggy was Doctor Alan Morrison, Paul's own father!
+
+Five seconds passed, but it seemed an hour, a day, a life-time to that
+man, as his heart ceased to beat, and he gripped the reins convulsively
+in his clenched hands.
+
+Then the heavens seemed to almost split with the sudden outburst of wild
+shouts that raced up and down that street.
+
+"He's done it! Hurrah! The boy's stopped him! Bully for Paul Morrison!"
+
+Men shouted, boys shrieked, while women embraced in their tears. The
+tense strain was over, for willing hands had clutched the lines after
+Paul's weight had brought the wild runaway to a staggering halt; and the
+danger was past.
+
+Then ensued a wild scene, everybody trying to get hold of the boy who had
+known what to do in an emergency, and not only that, but had done it.
+
+Confused, overwhelmed, Paul in the great confusion tried to flee; but
+while he did manage to duck under many of the hands outstretched to
+clutch him, it was only to dart into the arms of some one who pressed him
+to his heart.
+
+And looking up the boy saw above him the face of one whom he loved--his
+father, who had been a witness to his adventure.
+
+"That was well done, my boy; and I'm glad I saw it!" was all the good
+doctor said; but Paul never forgot the proud look that accompanied the
+words.
+
+It would return to him many times in the distant future, when he might be
+tempted by the fascinations of the world to turn aside from the narrow
+path which he had chosen to tread; and must ever be a guide and beacon
+for his footsteps.
+
+Then came Jack, with William, Tom Betts and Bluff Shipley, all nearly
+wild over the fact that it was their chum who had acquitted himself so
+well.
+
+Before Paul could make his escape he found his hand gripped by the father
+of the child in the wagon, who happened to be a prosperous farmer, with
+whom Doctor Morrison was well acquainted.
+
+"I never could tell you what I think about this, my boy," he said, with
+deep feeling. "The child's mother'll never forget you, be sure of that.
+And it ain't right for me to offer you any reward for doing such a fine
+thing; but I want you to buy something with this ten dollars, that every
+time you look at it you'll remember little Tod Perkins, what owed his
+life to you."
+
+"Oh! I couldn't think of it, Mr. Perkins. Why, it was just pie to me, you
+know. Please don't make me take it!" said the boy, still more confused;
+but the farmer had already turned away to embrace his child, and there
+seemed nothing for it but to accept the gift.
+
+"Don't offend him by refusing, Paul; he means well, and perhaps you can
+buy something with it that will serve as a reminder," said the doctor,
+always trying to avoid hurting other people's feelings.
+
+"Why, sure, what's to hinder you buying your scout's uniform with it?"
+declared William at this juncture.
+
+"You certain earned it, if anybody ever did work for what they got!"
+avowed Bobolink, positively.
+
+"Oh! w-w-why wasn't it m-m-me?" wailed Bluff, in pretended grief.
+
+"Say, do you think you could have nailed that runaway horse, with such an
+impediment twisting you up?" demanded Bobolink, grinning.
+
+"Well, boys, since you say so, I suppose then I'll just have to accept
+it, and call my outfit earned by the sweat of my brow," laughed Paul,
+taking out his handkerchief to wipe his face from its collection of
+perspiration and dust.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X
+
+AN UNEXPECTED OFFER
+
+
+Paul and his chum managed to break away finally, and walk toward the home
+of the latter. Jack had his arm through that of the other, and it seemed
+as though he felt happier over the recent exploit than the one who had
+occupied the centre of the stage.
+
+"My heart seemed to be up in my mouth just when you made that grab for
+the bit. I believe I would have fallen in a fit if you had gone under,
+Paul," said Jack, with a big sigh, as he pressed the arm he held.
+
+"Well, I was a little worried myself that something might upset me just
+then. But luck favored me, you know. I'm more than glad, because it would
+have given my mother a bad shock if I'd been trampled on. But please drop
+that subject, old fellow," said Paul, making a wry face.
+
+"I will, since you ask it; but they won't forget it in the town for a
+long time. Such things happen only once a year or more around dull old
+Stanhope. To-night we meet to see how many have the money earned for the
+suits; and I'm glad to say I can cover my needs. You're doubly supplied
+now, with this windfall."
+
+"Yes, and I wish I could help some other fellow out; but I'm afraid that
+would be against the rules of the game. Here we are at your house, and
+bless me if Carlo hasn't carried that basket of provisions straight back
+to the kitchen door. Say, he _is_ a trump, sure enough, Jack."
+
+"Oh! that's dead easy for Carlo. Why, we often put a nickel in the
+basket, and send him down to the bakery for a loaf of bread," laughed the
+other.
+
+"And does he always get it?" asked Paul, looking suddenly interested.
+
+"I don't believe he's failed for six months. Of course Mr. Crusty knows
+what we want, and wraps the loaf up so as to keep the dust off. Why, that
+ain't the best of his tricks, by a long shot. I taught him when he was
+hungry to go--"
+
+"Excuse me, won't you, Jack; there comes father, and I do believe he's
+heading home long before his usual time. Perhaps he's afraid mother may
+hear that something has happened to me, and would be anxious. I'd better
+jump in with him, don't you think? Another time I'll hear all about the
+wonderful stunts of Carlo."
+
+And so speaking Paul ran out to join his father in the buggy.
+
+Jack looked after him, and sighed heavily. It was not that he felt a
+particle jealous of the recent exploit which his chum had engineered so
+successfully; for envy was not one of his failings. But he did wish that
+his mind was as free from anxiety and suspicion as that of Paul Morrison.
+
+For the mystery of those disappearing coins hung about his neck like a
+millstone, nor could he ever know peace again until in some way it were
+explained.
+
+What happened at the Morrison home when the doctor told the story of his
+boy's heroism no one ever knew; for Paul was not the one to betray family
+secrets.
+
+But Jack, who understood what an affectionate mother his chum had, could
+easily imagine how she wrapped her arms about the boy, and pressed him
+again and again to her bosom, thanking Heaven that the child she had
+watched grow from babyhood until he was now almost as tall as his father,
+should show signs of proving himself a worthy successor to the "good
+Doctor," as every one knew him.
+
+That night the boys had the darkness to contend with when they started
+for the place of meeting, though the late moon might show her smiling
+face before the time came for them to return home.
+
+There were just twenty-two who reported at roll call that evening at
+eight, and one need only glance around at the faces of the boys, both
+large and small, to be positive that the enthusiasm, instead of dying
+out, was increasing by leaps and bounds.
+
+When the meeting had been called to order, the one subject that
+interested those gathered was the question of obtaining their uniforms
+and other outfit.
+
+A warm discussion arose shortly when Jack asked for information
+concerning the right of any scout to assist a fellow member who might be
+behind in earning the necessary amount.
+
+Some believed one way, while others seemed to look at it in another
+light, and not a few were, as Jack said, "on the fence."
+
+"Listen, fellows, and I'll tell you what I gathered from studying the
+books on the Boy Scout movement loaned me by the minister. Here are
+twenty or more of us, and we need just so much money for an outfit. Some
+can show much more than they need, others fall short, although they may
+have worked even harder. Is that plain?" and Jack looked around at the
+eager faces as he put the question.
+
+"It certainly is," remarked Paul, smiling; "some are born rich, others
+earn riches, and once in a while some lucky chap has the money stuck
+right in his hand. I'm one of the last class. But go on, Jack; for I know
+you've got a bright idea that may help us out of this hole."
+
+"The answer is easy, fellows. We must make a common fund. Then every
+member can put in all he wants, so long as it has been honestly earned.
+See my plan?"
+
+"Sure, and it goes. That's the answer to the problem. Let's try it out
+and see how near we can come to the amount needed," said Jud Elderkin,
+briskly; starting to pass around slips of paper and a pencil.
+
+"Put down what you can hand over to the general fund, each fellow; and
+remember it means cash, to be delivered to-morrow, and not credit," he
+announced.
+
+There was the utmost eagerness to carry out the idea, and before five
+minutes had passed every boy had written his name on a slip of paper,
+together with the full amount which he could contribute to the general
+fund.
+
+"I appoint Jud and Bobolink a committee to canvass the vote, and count up
+the amount subscribed," said Paul, as chairman of the meeting.
+
+It did not take very long, though the two boys were seen to go over their
+figures several times in order to make sure there could be no error.
+
+"Look at the grins on their faces! Don't that tell the story, fellows!
+Hurrah!" shouted Nuthin'.
+
+And when the amount was declared it was found that it far exceeded the
+actual sum needed to purchase uniforms for the entire twenty-two scouts,
+including hats and leggings.
+
+"Don't forget that I've just got to have a bugle, fellows. What use is it
+to be elected bugler if you can't bugle?" exclaimed Bobolink.
+
+"And m-m-me for a d-d-d-d-d-drum!" echoed Bluff, excitedly; when he was
+immediately pounced upon as usual, and pounded several times on the back.
+
+"Yes, do get Bluff something he can beat. I've heard him drum, and he's
+just a corker at it. It keeps him from talking, you know," laughed Tom
+Betts.
+
+"Hello!" exclaimed Nuthin' suddenly; "look who's here, fellows!"
+
+All eyes were immediately turned toward the door, and focussed upon the
+figure that stood just within the barn, having entered while they were
+boisterously exchanging these compliments.
+
+"Why, it's Mr. Growdy!" said Paul.
+
+"Old Peleg!" echoed Bobolink, in a hushed tone.
+
+One and all stared at the crusty old farmer, who for years had avoided
+all boys as though he thought them a dangerous breed of animals which it
+were safer to let severely alone.
+
+When Paul saw the amused smile creeping over the rugged and seamed face
+of the old farmer he understood that Peleg had really experienced a
+wonderful change of heart, dating from that night when the new Boy Scouts
+cleaned up his dooryard as an object lesson.
+
+And now Peleg was coming slowly forward, looking a bit awkward; since he
+had never been accustomed to facing an audience, and especially one
+composed of boys.
+
+They made way for him, so that presently he found himself completely
+surrounded by an eager throng.
+
+"Glad to see you, Mr. Growdy," said Paul, holding out his hand
+impulsively; and to the surprise of the others it was eagerly seized upon
+by the calloused fingers of the toiler in the fields; "these are the
+friends I spoke to you about. And this is the Fox Patrol of the newly
+organized Boy Scouts."
+
+Peleg grinned, and acknowledged the introduction by ducking his touseled
+head.
+
+"Glad to meet ye, boys. I've be'n hearin' quite considerable 'bout what
+ye was adoin' over here, an' I thort as how I'd jest drap in to see ye
+all; sorter like returnin' yer call, so to speak!" he said, again
+allowing a humorous look to appear upon his face.
+
+And somehow the boys instantly concluded that when Peleg allowed the
+lines of his severe face to relax, he was rather a jolly old chap after
+all.
+
+"Hurrah! Three cheers for Mr. Peleg Growdy!" exclaimed one of those who
+felt relieved to think that his coming meant no trouble after all.
+
+But the farmer raised his hand.
+
+"Jest wait till I has my little say, boys. Now, at fust I was kinder
+riled that a passel o' boys shud 'a' took me to task on account o' my
+way o' lettin' things run loose like at my place. But I gotter thinkin'
+her over, and by hokey if it didn't jest come home to me. Times was when
+my dooryard was the puttiest around all Stanhope, with the flowers
+abloomin', an' every scrap tidied up; but in them happy days Mandy an'
+the kids was there, ye see; an' sense they was took it 'peared like I
+never cared what things looked like; an' that's a fact, boys."
+
+The old man seemed to swallow something that threatened to choke him; and
+then, while the boys hung on his every word, and wondered how they had
+ever come to misunderstand him as they had, he went on:
+
+"But I kim to the conclusion, arter thet kind visit ye paid me, thet I
+owed a duty to the community, and it warn't right for any citizen to let
+his place look disgraceful. So arter this nobody ain't agoin' to be
+ashamed to pass by the yard where Mandy 'tended the rose bushes, and her
+tots played from morn to night. I jest drapped in here to thank ye right
+hearty boys, for showin' me wot was wantin'. Arter this there ain't never
+agoin' to be any trouble between me an' the boys o' Stanhope. They kin
+count on old Peleg Growdy to contribute to every sport that goes to
+cultivate the mind and body in the right direction!"
+
+He seemed a vastly different man as he stood there and said this, for his
+head was thrown back, his eyes flashed, and his face was almost friendly
+in its expression, the old haggard look having for the time being
+disappeared.
+
+"Again I say, three cheers for Mr. Growdy!" called Joe Clausin.
+
+"Wait a bit, fellers. I got somethin' more to say," pleaded the old man,
+once again lifting his hand to still the rising tumult.
+
+Paul smiled, for he could give a pretty shrewd guess as to what was
+coming; and it certainly did him good to realize how their odd little
+scheme was turning out to be such a glorious success.
+
+Every voice was hushed, and once more the throng waited for the farmer to
+explain.
+
+"I've been ahearin' a good lot about wot ye're all adoin' with this Boy
+Scout business. Kinder got me interested, an' I borried some books o' the
+dominie jest so I could understand wot 'twas all about. An' I want to say
+I like the ijee fust rate. If I hed any boys o' my own," and his voice
+faltered right there, "I'd sure encourage 'em to jine in with ye. Seein'
+as I ain't, an' on account o' the good turn ye done me t'other night,
+boys, I'm goin' to ask a favor o' ye. I ain't got nary a kid to leave
+my money to when I go; and so I hope ye'll let me pay for fittin' this
+here Fox Patrol out with uniforms! That's my ijee, boys, an' it'll give
+me great joy if so be ye take me up!"
+
+They looked at each other for a minute, speechless with astonishment.
+
+Then being real boys they found their voices with a rush. No need now for
+Tom Butts or Joe Clausin to suggest three cheers. That old barn fairly
+rocked with the volume of sound that burst forth, as every fellow swung
+his hat in the air, and tried his best to give his feelings free rein.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI
+
+CAUGHT NAPPING
+
+
+"Silence!"
+
+The tumult died away as quickly as it had sprung into being, when Paul
+held up his right hand and made this request.
+
+All being still again, he turned to the grinning old farmer, who was
+doubtless getting more solid satisfaction out of this new experience than
+he had obtained from any clever dicker or trade engineered in the last
+ten years.
+
+"Mr. Growdy," said Paul, with considerable of feeling in his voice, "as
+the present scout leader of Stanhope Troop No. 1 of the Boy Scouts, I
+want to thank you sincerely for your generous offer. We all appreciate
+the kindly spirit that causes you to make it to us. But unfortunately it
+happens that the rules of our organization will not allow us to accept."
+
+Peleg's face fell several degrees at this.
+
+"Say, couldn't ye jest make an exception this time, boys?" he pleaded.
+"I'll feel right hurt if I ain't 'lowed to help on this business some.
+Wot's a hundred dollars beside the new speerit ye've managed somehow to
+start up in me? If ye need more, by gum! ye kin hev it! I ain't no hog,
+if I hev let the people think so this long time."
+
+"Sorry to say so, Mr. Growdy, but we can't accept. Besides, we have all
+earned enough money now to pay for what we need, and expect to send away
+to-morrow to get our suits," Paul went on; and even while he was talking
+a bright idea came flashing into his brain.
+
+"Wall, now that's jest too bad, boys. I'd calkerlated to spend that
+hundred on doin' a good deed, an' ye make me go back home with the same
+hugged tight in my pocket. I'm sorry it cain't be did, I am, sure,"
+muttered the farmer, shaking his head, and acting like a child that has
+been cheated out of some anticipated pleasure.
+
+"That doesn't follow, Mr. Growdy," said Paul, in a low but thrilling
+voice; "if you have set your mind on using that hundred dollars to do a
+good work, perhaps I might give you a hint where it would fit in mighty
+well, and make your heart feel warm."
+
+"Hey! wot's that, Paul? I don't understand," exclaimed the man.
+
+"Down just beyond the outskirts of Stanhope there lives a poor widow
+woman who, I'm told, is in danger of being put out of her home any day
+now because she has been sick and unable to work so as to pay her rent.
+If you went to her right now, Mr. Growdy, and put that wad of money in
+her hand, I'm sure you'd never regret it, sir; and every boy here would
+thank you just as much as if you paid for his uniform. Isn't that so,
+fellows?"
+
+A chorus of shouts testified to the fact that Paul had hit upon a popular
+idea for turning the sudden generosity of the hitherto miserly old farmer
+to account.
+
+"Who is the woman?" asked Peleg Growdy uneasily.
+
+"Mrs. Jenks, who has three little children to support. Her husband was
+killed in that blast some years ago, and she never recovered a cent from
+the mining company, for they burst like a bubble," returned Paul.
+
+"By gum! wot d'ye know about that, now? I reckons as how she lives in one
+o' my own cottages, which the real estate man, Stebbins, takes keer of
+fur me. He was tellin' me about some tenant he'd have to put out; but I
+never noticed more'n that the name was Jenks."
+
+"But now?" ventured Paul.
+
+"It won't be did! No, sir, not by a jugful. I got my team outside, an'
+I'm goin' straight over to see the widder. I knowed her husband onct
+too, an' I'm some 'shamed thet I didn't look her up afore," and Peleg
+started for the door.
+
+"Hold on, Mr. Growdy!" called Paul.
+
+"Hey! wot's doin' now, boys?" demanded the old man, turning to grin again
+at his new host of young friends.
+
+"You oughtn't to leave here, sir, without giving every boy scout the
+privilege of shaking hands with you. I'm sure I speak for each fellow
+when I ask that favor," returned Paul, stepping forward.
+
+Peleg was agreeable, though he blushed like a schoolboy as the scouts,
+forming in line, walked past him, each seizing his horny hand eagerly,
+and doing his best to make the old farmer wince with the warmth of his
+squeeze.
+
+They gave him a parting cheer as he passed out, and the old fellow tried
+to return the military salute to the best of his ability.
+
+"Well, what do you think of that?" asked Nuthin', when they were once
+more gathered around their leader for the purpose of further discussion.
+
+"The finest thing that could possibly have happened. We had our frolic;
+and see what it hatched. After this Peleg Growdy will never be the same
+grumpy man he was in the past. No boy need longer hesitate to call out to
+him on the street; for Peleg, I take it, has seen a great light, eh,
+Jack?" and Paul slapped his chum heartily on the shoulder as he spoke.
+
+"My idea exactly," replied his chum, quickly. "And do you know it made me
+feel bad the way he spoke of Mandy and the kids. Some of you fellows may
+not know that he lost his wife and children in a fire that burned his
+house down while he was away. I'm glad we did that job, and you deserve
+the praise, Paul, because it was your own scheme."
+
+"Humbug! every one of you chimed in as soon as it was mentioned, and so
+you're entitled to as much praise as I am. But about those uniforms,
+boys--hadn't the scout tailor better get to work, going over his
+measurements again? We want the suits to fit all right, you know."
+
+And in this way did Paul direct the attention of his comrades in another
+quarter, because it was really unpleasant for him to be placed on a
+pedestal, as though he were different from the rest of them.
+
+Amid much laughter and joking the measuring went on. Wallace Carberry
+wielded the tape-line, and Bobolink put down the figures, being closely
+patched so that no errors could possibly creep in.
+
+So engrossed were they in this interesting business, that no one paid the
+least attention to their surroundings.
+
+And when a heavy shutter was slowly closed over the one large window of
+the tobacco barn, the fact went unnoticed.
+
+In fact the meeting was about ready to disband, and one of the boys
+started for the door to be in advance of his friends, when he made a
+discovery.
+
+"Who locked this door, fellows?" he called, as he tried in vain to budge
+the barrier.
+
+Of course this drew the attention of all the rest, and a rush was made
+for the place of exit. One by one the boys tried to push the door open,
+but even the stoutest of them failed to accomplish it.
+
+"Who was the last one in?" demanded Bobolink, furiously, as he retired,
+worsted from the encounter, to allow another a chance at the door.
+
+"Old Peleg Growdy, to be sure; and the door wasn't fastened then. D'ye
+suppose he did anything to it when he went out?" asked William, as he
+tried to assist Jud, now straining and pushing in a useless endeavor to
+move the heavy door.
+
+"That's nonsense," said Paul, as he pointed to the fact that the door
+could not be locked, since it gave an inch or so each time the boys
+pushed.
+
+"Ginger! it's got something braced against it outside, that's what!"
+announced another fellow.
+
+"As sure as you're born it has!" echoed Bobolink.
+
+All doubt was dissipated just then, for a series of loud and derisive
+shouts in boyish treble welled up from outside.
+
+"Shucks!" grunted Bobolink, in sheer disgust; "we've gone and let the
+Slavin fellers have another crack at us. A nice lot of scouts we look
+like, not to keep sentries on duty when we have a secret meeting. And now
+they've got us cooped up here like a lot of old hens! Shucks! I say
+again!"
+
+"Well, that's no reason we have to stay cooped up, is it?" demanded Jack,
+as he turned to hunt around for some object which could be used for a
+battering ram so as to force the barricaded door of the barn.
+
+"T-t-try the b-b-big wagon doors, fellows!" whooped Bluff.
+
+They did, but with no more success than had attended their puny efforts
+against the smaller exit. Those who had been at work while they talked
+must have done a good job, for the big doors were utterly immovable.
+
+"Do we have to stay in here until morning?" wailed Andy Flinn, in mock
+despair.
+
+"Not much, if I have to climb up to the roof, and knock a plank off. Say,
+those fellows must have been spying out here when I met them this
+morning," said Bobolink.
+
+"Listen now, what d'ye suppose they're doing?" demanded Nuthin'.
+
+All remained in an attitude of expectancy, and could hear strange sounds
+that seemed to come from under the boards forming the floor of the barn;
+which building had not always been used for drying tobacco alone.
+
+"Now what d'ye suppose the sillies are poking poles under there, for?"
+ejaculated William; "and just when I was going to propose that we pull up
+a board, and crawl through the hole."
+
+"Whew! what's this mean? Say, fellows, if that don't make me think of a
+blessed old skunk I don't know the odor when I meet it!" and Wallace drew
+back as he was about to get down on his hands and knees to investigate
+the meaning of the odd sounds under the barn flooring.
+
+Others got it quickly, and various cries arose, as the boys began to hold
+their noses, and look around at each other.
+
+"It'll smother us, fellows, that's what!" gasped William, quite pale by
+now; for the odor which a skunk leaves in its wake affects some persons
+powerfully, though others hardly mind it at all.
+
+"I know!" Bluff managed to gasp, with a great effort; "there's a
+f-f-family of s-s-skunks have their h-h-home under here. I've seen 'em,
+b-b-but I never b-b-bothered the b-b-beauties. Oh! ain't it j-j-just
+awful, f-f-fellows?"
+
+It certainly was.
+
+Stirred up by the poles wielded by Ted Slavin and his cronies, who must
+have discovered the presence of the polecats when visiting the barn that
+morning, and laid their plans accordingly, the little animals were using
+the only means of defence against an enemy granted them by Nature.
+
+William actually keeled over, and his brother had to drag him to the
+further end of the barn so that he might not get the full benefit of the
+overpowering scent.
+
+"Something's just _got_ to be done!" cried Jack, himself not feeling any
+too well under the infliction.
+
+"Here, help me lift this old beam, boys. We can make a battering ram out
+of it, and burst a board off somehow. Never mind the damages; they can be
+repaired easy enough. Two more get hold. Now, swing around this way. I
+think the weakest place is in the rear. Keep back, the rest of you. Here
+goes!"
+
+Five others had been only too willing to lend a hand when Paul called for
+volunteers. The beam that had been lying against the further wall was
+good and heavy; but that made it all the better as an engine for ramming
+a hole through the boarded side of the barn.
+
+Amid the cheers of the scouts the novel battering ram was carried forward
+with a will, and on the run. Some of the boys held up lanterns so that
+those who were in the line of attack could see just where to strike. Even
+poor overcome William managed to raise his head, and feebly wave a hand
+of encouragement.
+
+The beam struck with tremendous force, and nothing in the way of a plain
+ordinary boarding could withstand the impetus with which it was driven
+forward.
+
+"Whoop!" yelled the scouts, as a big aperture appeared in the side of the
+barn, and the route to liberty lay before them.
+
+They were not slow to avail themselves of the privilege either, but
+hastened to scramble through the gap, carrying the lanterns with them.
+William managed to get up enough steam to crawl outside, where he could
+breath air that was not fetid, and filled with overpowering odors.
+
+Only Bluff looked back half regretfully at the haven of refuge they had
+just quitted. For he was wondering how his father could ever manage to
+efface that scent so that the tobacco, soon to be harvested, might be
+hung up in that barn without detracting from its marketable value.
+
+And once out of the trap the Boy Scouts began to chase around, with
+vengeance in their eyes; but as on previous occasions the wary enemy,
+after accomplishing their mischief, had been wise enough to slink away.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII
+
+THE RIVAL TROOPS
+
+
+"How far do we have to go in this new plan of forgiving the enemy, Paul?"
+asked William, who had by now fully recovered from his recent weakness,
+and was burning with zeal to avenge himself upon their persecutors.
+
+"Yes, this thing has got to have a limit!" declared Jud Elderkin, as he
+glared around at the moonlit scene, and no doubt imagined their rivals
+hiding near by, where they could laugh at the disturbed group.
+
+Paul knew boy nature too well to stretch their patience beyond the
+breaking point. He was astonished that such fire-eaters as Bluff,
+William, and several more, could restrain themselves even as well as they
+had.
+
+To keep them in hand the reins must be loosened a little; but only to
+enable him to get a better hold later on.
+
+"Well, there's no positive rule, fellows; and so far as I can see I
+believe the limit has already been passed, with us," he said, pleasantly.
+
+"Hurrah! that's the kind of talk!" cried the inflammable Twin.
+
+"Then you give us permission to pitch in, and whale the whole bunch the
+next time they play one of their measly old tricks on us? Is that so,
+Paul?" demanded Jud.
+
+"Oh! I only h-h-hope so!" came from Bluff.
+
+"Wait till the time comes, and perhaps I'll help you give them a
+much-needed lesson. We don't want to play the worm part, always,"
+remarked Paul; "and now, boys, let's head for home."
+
+"Ta-ta, sweet little meeting-house on the edge of the woods; I'll carry
+fond memories of you as long as this suit of clothes lasts, I guess,"
+said William, waving his hand mockingly backward toward the deserted
+barn.
+
+"Watch out for some of those Slavin fellows on the road. They may bombard
+us from the woods with rocks!" warned Joe Clausin.
+
+"Just let 'em try, that's all. We'll chase the stone thrower to a
+standstill, and then he'll be sorry he wandered away from his happy home
+this night!" Bobolink declared, ferociously.
+
+So they walked along in detached groups, many eyes were on the alert, and
+listening ears bent to catch some sign of a lurking foe.
+
+Once or twice they heard signals being exchanged deep in the woods,
+evidently by the scattered cohorts of Ted; but while valiant, the members
+of the Fox Patrols were wise and prudent as well, copying the cautious
+attributes of the wary animal after which their new organization had been
+named.
+
+They declined to explore the dense forest, seeking a foe that might only
+be bent on luring them along, until ready to pounce on them in a body, to
+make them prisoners of war.
+
+And so finally the march came to an end, with all hands satisfied that
+the last meeting of the little host of new scouts had been attended by
+several of the most exciting circumstances that ever befell the boys of
+Stanhope.
+
+Paul and his chum walked on together, until reaching the first home they
+said good night. But neither again brought up that subject which had been
+worrying Jack Stormways for so long a time.
+
+If Paul had conceived any sort of an idea in connection with the strange
+disappearance of the old coins, he kept it to himself.
+
+Once, however, on the way home after leaving Jack, he stopped to clap his
+hand down vigorously on his knee, and whispered to himself:
+
+"Now, I wonder if that could possibly be so?"
+
+But no matter what idea had struck him, further words didn't come to tell
+whether his thoughts were connected with Jack's personal trouble; or on
+the other hand if the annoying enmity of Ted Slavin, Ward Kenwood, and
+their would-be scout troop, was still on his mind.
+
+Nevertheless, as Paul passed up to the front door of his home, and
+stopped a minute to look up at the bright moon sailing across the eastern
+heavens, he considered that he had good reason to feel more than
+satisfied with the magnificent results already attending the new methods
+of the Boy Scouts.
+
+On the following day he sent off the letter containing a check which his
+father gave him in place of the money, so that it might not be lost.
+
+Then followed a period of anxious waiting, during which many of the
+members of the Stanhope Troop No. 1 felt touches of envy at sight of
+their rivals parading the streets, decked out in the full regalia of
+Scouts, and carrying themselves with the proudest of airs.
+
+They knew that Ted and Ward were busily engaged in drilling their
+followers in many of the devices prominently mentioned in the manual
+book. For that matter, though, it did not require regulation suits of
+khaki to excel in those same things; and so the Foxes also studied and
+experimented, and burned candles at night in the endeavor to learn all
+that was possible of those various accomplishments.
+
+There was a great difference in the boys of the town.
+
+Few who were of the proper age but who belonged to one or the other of
+the troops; and people were beginning to notice how much more manly they
+carried themselves, and how anxious they seemed now to get credit marks
+at home.
+
+Parents upon meeting never failed to talk about this wonderful change,
+and express hopes that it would last.
+
+"The best thing that ever happened, barring none, I think," was what the
+old minister declared, at a meeting of the Women's Club; "and it deserves
+to be encouraged. Why, you ladies should take advantage of this wave of
+reform, to get these lads interested in keeping the streets of the town
+clean. Give me fifty willing workers among the boys, and I warrant you
+there will never be a stray piece of paper blowing around. They'll
+provide receptacles for trash, and see that everybody uses them."
+
+And so it went around, and everybody seemed delighted at the innovation.
+Only a few skeptical old fogies shook their heads, and declared that it
+was too good to last, and that they about expected to see the boys of
+Stanhope transplanted to the heavens in a body presently, since their
+wings must be sprouting.
+
+About this time it came to the ears of Paul that the banner which the
+peace-loving Quaker, Mr. Westervelt, had offered for the most proficient
+troop of scouts along the Bushkill, had been placed on exhibition in the
+window of a jewelry store over in the manufacturing town of Manchester.
+
+He and Jack wheeled over that very day to inspect the coveted trophy.
+When they saw what a beauty it was, their hearts thrilled with new
+aspirations.
+
+"Worth fighting hard for, eh, Paul?" observed Jack.
+
+"I should say, yes," replied the other, delight written in big letters on
+his face, pressed so close to the glass; "and I reckon it would do our
+fellows lots of good just to run down here to look at that dandy banner.
+I must tell them all about it, and have them see it for themselves."
+
+"A bully good idea. You know how to get a fellow to put his best licks
+into any job he undertakes," declared his chum, admiringly.
+
+"Humbug!" scornfully replied Paul; "why, it's as easy as falling off a
+log. Don't you feel more like straining every nerve in the effort to win
+that prize, after seeing how handsome it is? Well, I just try to believe
+every fellow is more or less like I am. That's the whole secret. Yes,
+Stanhope must work hard to catch up with the other fellows."
+
+There were several boys standing around, also gaping at the fine snowy
+banner, upon which as the card under it, went on to state, was to be
+embroidered with colored silk the totem of the leading patrol of the
+successful troop.
+
+These fellows could not help knowing who the strangers in town were; and
+it was also easy for them to guess what had brought Paul and Jack down
+there. More than a few times had they seen these Stanhope boys competing
+on the athletic field, either in baseball, or football. And of course it
+was always good form for Manchester lads to "josh" any would-be rivals.
+
+"Yes," said one of the natives, with a grin, "up in that corner is where
+the eagle is going to be painted. And every time we go on a hike we'll
+carry that banner at the head of the procession."
+
+"They say," remarked another, with pretended innocence, "that poor old
+Stanhope is getting up a troop, and even hopes to have a try for this
+beauty. Now, what do you think about the nerve of that, fellows?"
+
+"Oh! well, the more the merrier," came from a third, whom Paul knew to be
+the scout leader of the "Eagles" in person, "and after all, we don't mind
+showing these tenderfeet scouts how to do stunts. None of us want to be
+hogs, boys. There's room enough for all, even if some do have to eat
+the husks."
+
+Paul had to laugh out loud at this.
+
+"Say, you're on to us, all right, Manchester," he said, turning around.
+"Yes, we've come down here just to take a peep at this great prize. Of
+course we'd like mighty well to say we meant to win it; but we're too
+modest for that. The most we admit is that we mean to make a try for it.
+Of course we haven't got much show against two such veteran troops as
+Manchester and Aldine; but we want to get all the fun out of the game we
+can. And you won't begrudge us that, Claypool?"
+
+"Sure we won't, Morrison," returned the other, frankly, thrusting out
+his hand; "as I said before, the more in it the better. It will make our
+victory look bigger."
+
+"Glad to see you're so dead sure of winning out," laughed Paul; "whenever
+the Stanhope boys go into anything they always work harder if they have
+big odds against them. But all the same that's a bully good banner, and
+no matter whether it has an eagle, the head of a beaver, or that of a
+fox worked on it in colored silk, it's going to be something we'll all
+be proud of as Boy Scouts."
+
+"That's well put, Morrison; though you might just as well get it out of
+your head now as later that the Manchester fellows will ever let any
+crowd come in here and take that dandy flag away. Why, our fellows know
+ten times as much about scout tactics as your greenhorns do now."
+
+Claypole did not mean to be overbearing; when he said this he really
+believed it to be an actual fact.
+
+"That's very true," said Paul, quietly, as he and his chum prepared to
+mount their wheels for the return journey; "but Thanksgiving is still
+more than two months off; and Claypole, I give you my word, we've got
+some of the smartest tenderfeet in the Stanhope troop you ever heard
+of. Ta-ta, boys!"
+
+Of course, when Paul and Jack told what they had seen, every fellow
+wanted to make the run over to Manchester to look for himself. And,
+just as Paul had expected, they came back home more than ever enthused
+with the hope and prospect of winning that royal banner for the Stanhope
+troop.
+
+At the next meeting the talk was all about the prize, and a vote was even
+taken to ascertain to whom the honor of being the banner bearer might
+fall, in case the victory was awarded to Stanhope. Wallace Carberry
+turned out to be the lucky standard bearer.
+
+All of which was just what clever Paul wanted. He had infused a new
+stimulant into the veins of his comrades. And at their next outdoor
+rally, when various contests were undertaken to discover who showed the
+most skill, he found that the very atmosphere seemed to be surcharged
+with electricity; for the boys labored to excel as they had never done
+before; but it was because each one believed that upon his shoulders
+alone devolved the duty of bringing that beautiful prize to Stanhope.
+
+Four days later the expected suits arrived, much sooner than even the
+most sanguine had anticipated.
+
+Then there _was_ a time.
+
+The usually quiet and peaceful streets of the town were fairly filled
+with khaki-clad warriors, strutting up and down, exchanging military
+salutes, and arousing the admiration of all the girls, who came forth
+to gaze and applaud.
+
+It was a great day for Stanhope. A stranger visiting there for the first
+time might think some military academy must have taken up fall quarters
+near by, and granted full liberty to its uniformed hosts.
+
+If there were those who had been hesitating about joining either of the
+troops, a decision must certainly follow the first glimpse of those
+gallant uniforms.
+
+That night many a lad ate supper as an honored guest at his father's
+table; for surely the wearer of a uniform must be entitled to unusual
+privileges.
+
+Of course the word had gone around for a meeting of the Stanhope No. 1.
+But it was not to be held at the Shipley barn--oh! no, those boys had
+had "quite a sufficiency," as Bobolink said, of their former quarters;
+and Bluff admitted that his father would not dare use the building again
+that year for his tobacco crop.
+
+Jason Carberry, father of the twins, had asked as a favor that they make
+use of his big smithy; and since the night air was cool, Paul had
+accepted this generous proposition of the blacksmith on the spot.
+
+So that was where they came together, a uniformed organization, at last.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII
+
+"FIRE!"
+
+
+"Man the bellows, somebody."
+
+"Yes, stir up the fire in that forge, William. It's the coldest September
+night on record, and that's a fact!" exclaimed Bobolink, as he pushed
+the lively member of the Carberry team toward the smouldering fire left
+by the blacksmith when he gave over his capacious smithy to the Boy
+Scouts for their meeting.
+
+"M-m-my dad s-s-says he once lost his t-t-t-tobacco c-crop in
+S-s-september!" observed Bluff, shaking his head as he pushed toward
+the fire.
+
+The boys had had a fine meeting.
+
+Besides the twenty-two in their new uniforms, four new recruits had been
+present, to drink in with eager ears all that passed, and sigh for the
+day to come when they too might shine forth in such resplendant suits.
+
+Already was there much rivalry shown in the many competitions which the
+young scout leaders had instituted. There was a class on aviation,
+another that had taken up the mysteries of camping with all its
+fascinating details; a third chose photography as the most entrancing
+subject, and exhibited many pictures that were to be entered in the great
+contest of the county for the banner.
+
+Then several boys had doubled, for surely the knowledge of cookery went
+hand in hand with that of camping; while a good stalker could at the same
+time enter for a merit badge in the path-finding line.
+
+Besides, though the season was late for swimming, several fellows who
+knew just what their best accomplishment might be, had qualified to
+enter this class.
+
+On the whole the meeting had been a most interesting one. Every scout
+was burning with enthusiasm, and many were the resolutions that Stanhope
+must have what Bobolink called a "show-in," with regard to that coveted
+banner, which was to fall to the leading patrol of the county.
+
+They were now almost ready to "break camp" for the evening, and before
+doing so indulged in a little general talk. Many had ideas which they
+wished to advance, in order to discover what the attitude of their
+comrades might be.
+
+"Mr. Chairman," said Wallace Carberry, when he found a little lull in the
+buzz of conversation, "I have a proposition I'd like to put before the
+meeting before we disband."
+
+"Hear! hear!" shouted several of the boys, notably those who had been
+seen in close confab with Wallace, and hence probably in touch with his
+scheme.
+
+"All right, Number Seven; let's hear what it is," replied Paul, readily.
+
+Every member of each patrol had a number. These began with the scout
+leader, who of course had to take the "initial sack," as Bobolink, still
+baseball wild, put it. Jack, as his assistant in control, came as Number
+Two; Bobolink next; Bluff captured Four as his distinguishing feature;
+Nuthin' being Five, and the twins the next pair, for it would never do to
+separate William and Wallace, while Tom Betts was Eighth and last.
+
+"If the gentlemen present will give me the floor, with the privilege of
+three minutes in which to explain what I have in mind, I will be glad to
+comply."
+
+Wallace was very precise in his way of putting things. This did not
+happen only when in school, or as he stood up to address a meeting of
+his chums. He could not unbend his dignity even under the most trivial
+conditions.
+
+William was just the reverse; and so full of frolic and fun that the boys
+always declared the pair to be unequally matched, since in disposition
+they were exact opposites.
+
+And yet under it all there was the same abiding affection that generally
+may be found between twins.
+
+"Hear! hear!" shouted the boys once more.
+
+"Let's have it, Wallace, old sport. It's bound to be a jim-dandy idea!"
+declared a loud voice that seemed to spring from the ceiling; but no one
+was deceived, for they knew only too well how Bobolink could throw his
+voice pretty much where he pleased.
+
+"Silence!"
+
+When Paul, who in the absence of a regular scout master, occupied the
+chair, uttered this one word every sound ceased; and after that there was
+no excuse for Wallace to hesitate longer.
+
+"Some of us have been talking it over, Mr. Chairman, and we would
+respectfully request that you name an early date when we can go out into
+the woods for several tests of skill. There is much keen rivalry among a
+number of us already, which can only be settled by an open trial. First
+of all there is the interesting water-boiling test of woodmanship. We
+want to know who is the leading light in that class so we may push him
+forward to enter the general competition with other Boy Scout troops. Am
+I understood, Mr. Chairman?"
+
+"I think you have made your meaning plain, and the one particular
+competition you mention happens to be the most interesting of all,"
+replied Paul.
+
+"Then may we hope that you will name an early day for the trial to come
+off? Unfortunately school begins shortly now, and outside of Saturdays
+and holidays the several Fox patrols may not have much chance to practice
+before the grand trial comes off. Make it as early as possible, Mr.
+Chairman."
+
+"How would to-morrow do?" asked Paul, only too anxious himself to
+ascertain how the boys would "toe the mark."
+
+Wallace looked at his backers, and there were vigorous nods in answer to
+the question seen upon his face.
+
+"It seems to be the unanimous consensus of opinion, Mr. Chairman, that
+to-morrow would suit first rate. Please give us the hour for assembling,
+and you can depend on our being on deck," Wallace remarked.
+
+"Two o'clock ought to answer. That will give us plenty of time to try out
+a lot of stunts I shall arrange for."
+
+"Where shall we meet?" asked Jud Elderkin.
+
+"H-h-how about our b-b-barn, fellows?" queried Bluff, grinning.
+
+There was an instantaneous howl of derision, and every right hand went up
+so that the thumb and forefinger might compress a nose.
+
+"Another year might do, Bluff!" called one.
+
+"What isn't fit for storing tobacco can't be a proper meeting place for
+respectable Boy Scouts!" declared another, energetically.
+
+"Oh! he's only bluffing, fellows; don't mind him!"
+
+"In fancy I can smell it now," sang another, mockingly.
+
+"We'll meet just outside this very blacksmith shop, and at two sharp,"
+declared the chairman, decisively; "and any scout who is tardy will
+be given one or more bad marks that he must carry as a load in the
+competition. Punctuality is a leading trait in Stanhope Troop No. 1,
+you understand. Any other proposition?"
+
+The boys began to talk among themselves, and for a short time there was
+a constant buzz that sounded like a big hive of bees.
+
+Jack found himself in contact with Paul while this was going on. He had
+been doing his duty to the best of his ability as he understood it; and
+while the meeting was in progress had proven conclusively that he had a
+thorough knowledge of the many things a full fledged scout must know.
+
+Jack meant to graduate from the tenderfoot class in the shortest possible
+space of time. Any scout may do this by being diligent in the pursuit of
+various lines of woodcraft.
+
+"Well," said Jack, as he pushed alongside his chum, "this has been a
+dandy meeting, all right. And there are four new fellows knocking at the
+door; with perhaps more to follow, when Stanhope learns what great times
+we have."
+
+"Yes, and I guess we'll need new recruits right along. You know that some
+of the boys will fall by the wayside soon after the novelty has worn
+off," remarked wise Paul, who delighted in studying human nature as he
+saw it around him.
+
+"Listen! fellows! The fire alarm!" shouted Joe Clausin, just at that
+instant.
+
+Every voice was hushed.
+
+Clear upon the night air rang out the sound of a tocsin--the stroke of a
+hammer upon a steel rim from a locomotive wheel, and which was hung aloft
+in the only firehouse in Stanhope.
+
+It was a thrilling sound at any time, and especially to a company of
+boys newly enlisted in the great cause of humanity--of lending a hand
+to neighbors who might be in trouble. So after several more clear,
+resounding strokes had pealed forth, calling the volunteer department
+out to fight the fire demon, one scout started wildly for the double
+doors of the smithy.
+
+He was immediately followed by others, and in almost the twinkling of an
+eye the Carberry blacksmith shop was emptied of its late noisy crowd.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV
+
+JACK'S CHANCE
+
+
+"Wow! look at that, will you?"
+
+"It's a barn most likely!"
+
+"Don't you believe it. I can see the roof of the house! Say, I believe it
+must be that old Bradley place! Come along, fellows!"
+
+"There are the firemen on the run! They'll have old Rescue No. 1 on the
+jump in a jiffy. Hey, fellers, let's get busy, and pull the hose cart for
+'em!"
+
+"Bully idea. Lead the way, Paul! It's up to you to show us how!"
+
+With these and many more cries the Boy Scouts bore down on the building
+that sheltered the lone fire department of the town. This consisted of
+a cast-off engine in good repair which had been purchased from some big
+city, where they were installing an auto in place of horse power for
+propelling their machines; and a hose reel, the latter to be drawn by
+a line of men.
+
+Of course the assembling firemen were only too glad of the offered aid.
+To have a score of husky boys appear so readily on the scene, ready for
+business, was in the line of a "snap."
+
+Accordingly, while some of the men got the horses hitched to the engine,
+and others started the fire going, the hose cart was rushed out, and its
+long rope eagerly seized by the waiting boys.
+
+Paul was at the end of the line, for a scout leader must live up to his
+reputation as a general, no matter what the emergency.
+
+"Pull!" went forth the cry, and immediately the hose reel started off in
+the direction where a flash of fiery red announced that the excitement
+was centred.
+
+Nothing could please such an energetic lot of lads more than a chance to
+make themselves useful in this way. They pulled with a will, and passed
+along the road leading out of the town, on a wild run.
+
+The one who had declared that it was the old Bradley house that was on
+fire must have had the situation well in mind. Perhaps he lived in that
+neighborhood, and was better able to judge than the balance of the boys.
+At any rate all of them had by now made sure of the fact.
+
+Paul remembered that a family, in which were quite a number of children,
+had lately come to town, and taken the big ramshackle building.
+
+The thought gave him a thrill, and inwardly he found himself hoping that
+none of them might be caught in that fire-trap.
+
+"There comes the old machine!" shouted the fellow who, not being able to
+get a grip on the rope by which the hose wagon was drawn, trotted in the
+rear, and made out to push.
+
+Yes, they could hear the shouts of the excited fire laddies now, and also
+catch the sound of galloping horses.
+
+Looking over his shoulder, Paul saw a medley of moving lights, evidently
+the lanterns carried by the volunteers. These were doubtless clad in
+their old toggery and fire hats, the foreman with his silver trumpet in
+evidence, without which no respectable fire would think of allowing
+itself to be quenched.
+
+And a rising column of sparks attested to the fact that the fire in the
+engine was in full blast, so that steam would be ready by the time the
+scene of operations was reached.
+
+"One side, boys, and let them pass! Give them plenty of room!" called
+Paul.
+
+He had seen that old engine booming along to a fire on many an occasion,
+and remembered that the driver, Hank Seeris, was inclined to be a
+reckless hand; for as a rule the machine was wobbling from side to
+side, and threatening to overturn at any minute.
+
+Up to this date that catastrophe had never happened; but Paul remembered
+the old saying that "a pitcher may go to the well once too often;" and he
+had fears.
+
+It proved that they were well grounded too, after the hose reed had
+safely negotiated the last bend in the road, and the burning dwelling was
+in plain sight.
+
+"Look at them coming, full tilt! They will be over at the turn!" shrieked
+Bobolink, who, being near the tail end of the double line could observe
+what was taking place without hindrance.
+
+Immediately there arose a chorus of loud shouts, as of warning. But
+apparently Hank Seeris must have been indulging in more liquor than was
+good for him; or else he happened to be in an unusually reckless state.
+
+"They're going over!" howled Bobolink.
+
+"Smash!"
+
+"Oh! there goes our only engine to the scrap heap!" exclaimed Jud
+Elderkin, in dismay; for his father happened to be the foreman, and it
+looked just then as though the gallant fireman might be without a job.
+
+Paul ran back, as did most of the boys, thinking that something terrible
+must have happened.
+
+The plunging horses had been pulled down, and a man was already sitting
+on the head of each to keep them from kicking further. There are
+generally some wise persons present in such a calamity, who know just
+what ought to be done.
+
+Willing hands were already unhitching the horses, so that they could be
+taken out of the way, and the ditched engine upraised.
+
+"Where's Hank, the driver! Is he hurt?" asked some one; and Paul
+recognized the old minister, who must have been on the way home from
+visiting when the alarm burst out, and hence he had accompanied the fire
+fighters, eager to lend a hand at the rescue work.
+
+"Here he is, and just comin' to, after being knocked senseless. Hank
+ain't hurted, I reckon," answered a citizen who had run with the machine.
+
+"How about the engine--is she much damaged?" asked the foreman, as men
+set about raising the heavy Rescue No. 1.
+
+"Out of business for this trip, Elderkin. She'll never work again till
+she's gone down to the city for repairs," came the answer.
+
+A groan of dismay went up.
+
+"That settles the fate of the old Bradley house, then," declared many, as
+they saw the flames and smoke apparently increasing.
+
+Everybody was now anxious to get on the scene, and the engine was left in
+charge of a watcher, while the crowd rushed along, exchanging views of
+the accident, and the chances of saving the building by means of a bucket
+brigade.
+
+The foreman proved himself to be the right man in the right place. He
+instantly organized a double line of men and boys, leading from the creek
+near by, up to the house that was burning.
+
+Every imaginable species of bucket and tin pail was pressed into use. Men
+and boys invaded the kitchen and captured all sorts of utensils, from
+milkpans to butter firkins.
+
+These were put into use, and passed along as rapidly as those at the
+creek end could plunge them in, and fill them with water.
+
+At the other terminus the foreman and his assistants took the water
+pails, and dashed the contents here and there as opportunity arose.
+
+The Boy Scouts were nearly all somewhere in the line, and working
+valorously. For the time being they utterly forgot they were dressed in
+their new suits of khaki, and that the pails slopped over continuously,
+soon soaking them to the skin.
+
+Cheered on by the appeals of their leader they never flinched. It was the
+first chance Paul had of seeing how his enlisted followers could forget
+self, and rise grandly to an occasion.
+
+When any one showed signs of tiring he was quickly crowded out of the
+line by another eager willing worker. Indeed, there seemed to be three
+applicants for each job; and had there been more buckets several lines
+might have been formed to make use of that accommodating creek.
+
+Jack, after a little, found himself pushed aside by another scout, who
+wanted to exercise his muscles, and could wait no longer.
+
+Seeing a group around some children, and hearing sudden cries from a
+woman, Jack hurried across the lawn. Somehow he seemed to fear that
+new trouble had broken out; and when he saw a half-clad figure wringing
+her hands, and shrieking, he realized that his suspicions were going to
+prove true.
+
+"What is it?" he asked, of another scout, coming away from the group.
+
+"Her baby. She says it is in the house!" replied the boy, whose face was
+white with the horror of it all.
+
+"What?" cried Jack; "did she forget her own baby, then?"
+
+"She thought her husband had it. He's a sick man too. See, that's him
+they are holding back there. He wants to go in for the baby, and they
+won't let him. Oh! Jack, I'd like to do it, but I'm afraid of fire. I
+just dassent!" sobbed the boy.
+
+Jack waited to hear no more. His blood seemed to be on fire, and his
+teeth came together with a click.
+
+Another moment and he was in the group, eagerly plying the almost
+distracted mother with questions as to which room her baby had been in.
+Fortunately Jack had once known a boy living in the old Bradley mansion;
+so that the interior of the house was not strange to him.
+
+"Our bedroom--it is the corner one where the tower stands. The one that
+has the alcove!" the lady managed to cry, as she caught his arm, and
+looked, oh, so pleadingly, in his boyish, determined face.
+
+After that Jack would have risked anything in the attempt to save that
+innocent little one. He rushed off without saying a word. Several put
+out a hand to stop him, under the belief that it was useless, since that
+portion of the building seemed to be a mass of flames by now. But Jack
+dodged them just as he did when running with the ball on the football
+field.
+
+When he dashed into the house, disappearing in the volume of smoke that
+poured from the open doorway, a groan went up from the great crowd; for
+they doubted as to whether he would ever be seen alive again.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV
+
+THE HONOR BRAND
+
+
+"He's gone!"
+
+"Who was that boy?" called the foreman of the fire company, as he came
+running up, waving his speaking trumpet.
+
+"Jack Stormways, the lumber man's boy!" some one answered.
+
+"Well, he's a good one, all right; but I'm sorry for his mother!" said
+the experienced fire-fighter, as he looked anxiously at the flames
+pouring out from several windows directly under the room next the tower.
+
+Paul had dropped out of the line. He could not pass another bucket after
+seeing the chum he loved so well plunge into the doomed building. From
+right and left he heard many things spoken, and presently understood what
+it was induced Jack to attempt what seemed so like a foolhardy thing.
+
+So it would have been, had the object of Jack's attempt been the securing
+of valuables, no matter what the amount. But a human life counts for
+more than earthly riches; and a brave soul never stops to consider the
+risk when a fellow being is in peril of a terrible fate.
+
+Jack found himself in the midst of dense smoke as soon as he plunged
+across the doorsill. He had foreseen this, and with a wisdom beyond his
+years made simple preparations to combat the evil.
+
+On the way to the door he passed close by one who carried a bucket
+of water, and some happy inspiration caused him to snatch out his
+handkerchief and dip it into the cool liquid, not wringing it out to
+any extent.
+
+This he clapped over his nose, so that in breathing the wet cloth would
+keep much of the suffocating vapor from being drawn into his lungs.
+
+His eyes began to smart furiously. By the time he was half way up the
+stairs he could not see a thing around him save murky clouds of smoke,
+lighted by the tongues of flame that darted like serpents out of many
+places.
+
+He staggered up still further, and fell on the landing. But gaining his
+feet again he pushed on, still heading in the right direction. Only for
+the knowledge he possessed regarding the interior of the building, Jack
+would have lost his bearings then and there. The result must have been
+serious indeed.
+
+Along the hall he went. It seemed to grow hotter the further he pushed;
+but even that did not daunt him. Once enlisted in a good cause he must
+go on, no matter what faced him. Had not Paul said words to that effect,
+after telling them what it meant to be a tried and true scout?
+
+And here the opportunity had come to him not half an hour after the
+thrilling words were spoken!
+
+Those outside while still sending the buckets of water along, in the
+effort to save one portion of the large house, were waiting to see what
+came of Jack's attempt at rescue.
+
+"He's lost!" declared one, as the fire broke out in a new place; "see,
+that's the tower burning now, and she said the baby was in the room next
+there."
+
+"Poor old Jack! to think it should be him to go!" groaned Bobolink; "see,
+Paul, there's his father passing the buckets along. He don't even know
+his boy is in the old shack! Oh! my, whatever did he take chances like
+that for?"
+
+"Because he couldn't stand and see that poor mother shrieking for her
+baby. Because he's got the strongest heart of us all! That's why!"
+declared Paul, his voice vibrating with love for the chum he might never
+see alive again.
+
+And Bobolink said to himself:
+
+"By the jumpin' Jehosaphat, I believe Paul would have gone if Jack
+hadn't. He's lookin' at that house now like he wanted to run right in
+and tear it to flinders."
+
+"There he is at the window!" whooped a man's heavy voice.
+
+Instantly every eye ranged along the front of the building, wherever the
+columns of smoke permitted. And many a finger was pointed at the one
+where a waving hat served to draw attention.
+
+"He's shouting something. Keep still, everybody!"
+
+A dead silence immediately ensued. Only the roaring and crackling of the
+hungry flames could be heard, as every ear was strained to catch what
+it was the imperiled boy was saying.
+
+"He's got the baby--look! he's holding her up!"
+
+A shriek came from the agonized mother, and she fell on her knees with
+clasped hands.
+
+"Listen to what he says!"
+
+"Go to back of house--get ladder to window there!" called Jack huskily,
+at the top of his voice.
+
+"Hurrah! we understand, old fellow! We'll have you out of that yet!"
+whooped Bobolink, starting on the run around the end of the mansion.
+
+"A ladder--bring it around, boys! Let's save the brave youngster!" howled
+the tall foreman.
+
+The ladder happened to be up against the building at a point where the
+flames had now burst forth, driving the fire-fighters back. Himself, the
+foreman led in a bold forward rush to capture the required ladder; nor
+was he to be denied, scorning the efforts of the licking tongues of fire
+to daunt him.
+
+Then, with a swarm of followers, he pushed around the corner. Here,
+to be sure, there did seem to be less of smoke and blaze, owing to the
+direction of the night wind.
+
+Now they were placing the ladder. It reached up to a window, and if only
+Jack would show himself all might be well. Seconds were like an eternity
+to those who crowded below, every face upturned, and every eye ranging
+along the side of the house.
+
+The fire was pushing in this direction too, for it suddenly burst out
+of a broken window. From many pairs of lips there burst a groan. Well
+did they know that every second counted against the boy, who was
+doubtless groping his way along halls and through rooms filled with
+that overpowering smoke.
+
+"There he is!"
+
+It was like a sudden electric shock, that cry. The clarion notes of a
+bugle would not have thrilled that vast crowd one half so surely as did
+the appearance of a head at a window on the left.
+
+Jack had been shrewd enough to pick out a room that was further away from
+the devouring flames. A hoarse shout went up at sight of him.
+
+"He's got the baby too!" was the tenor of that victorious cry; and it
+was as though every man and boy and other person present felt a personal
+interest in the success of Jack's daring venture.
+
+The precious baby was saved; yes, he was hugging the bundle to his
+breast; and during a lull in the clamor they plainly heard the lusty
+cries that proceeded from that shawl-wrapped package. Those were
+doubtless the most blessed sounds that ever reached the strained ears
+of the praying mother.
+
+Quickly was the ladder lifted and rushed along the wall of the house
+until it stood beneath the window where Jack had shown himself.
+
+The foreman himself mounted as soon as it was in position. But Jack
+refused to hand over his burden, nor could Mr. Elderkin insist. It was
+only right that the one who had saved the little darling should have the
+pleasure of placing her in the arms of the frantic mother.
+
+But he could and did guide Jack's feet as they sought the rounds of
+the friendly ladder, so that presently the boy, with singed hair, and
+begrimed with smoke, was lifted to the ground.
+
+Hardly had Jack landed than a pair of arms encircled both him and the
+baby; for in that happy moment the mother realized what she owed this
+brave lad; and her heart was brimming over with gratitude.
+
+Such shouts as went up then! Those still coming to the scene must have
+thought the wearers of the fire hats had succeeded in running a line of
+hose into a position where victory was assured.
+
+Again the bucket brigade got busy, working with renewed zeal, though
+but little hope of saving any portion of the big building now remained.
+But every one was roused up to fever pitch by the excitement of the hour.
+And Jack's valiant work had helped inspire them to renewed deeds of
+endeavor.
+
+Paul led his chum away, for Jack was almost exhausted. Then came Mr.
+Stormways on the run, having just learned what his boy had done. He
+seized Jack in his arms, and shed tears over him; though at the same time
+his heart must have swelled within him with satisfaction that one of
+his brood had acquitted himself so well in a crisis that called for a
+cool head and nerves of steel.
+
+The flames kept on eating into the old building. It was now doomed, and
+the fire laddies confined their efforts to saving any furniture that
+could be carried out.
+
+Paul called his scouts around him, at the request of the old minister.
+They were rather a sorry looking group, though just as full of a desire
+to assist as ever. The fine new uniforms were bedraggled with mud and
+water. Several had holes burned in their coats, and that of Jack was
+a sight to behold.
+
+But who cared? After all, the uniforms were but an insignia of their
+connection with a great organization. New or old they stood for a
+principle; and gallantly had Stanhope Troop No. 1 responded when the
+need arose.
+
+The old and highly respected minister, whose heart was filled with a
+great love for the rising generation, shook hands with each and every
+scout, declaring that he was proud of the privilege.
+
+"Don't mind the soiling of your new uniforms, lads. Every mark found upon
+them to-morrow must serve as a badge of honor to the wearer. After this
+it will be the tried and true scout who can point to a burnt hole in his
+smart coat, and say 'I got that the night of the great fire up at
+Bradley's!' And what shall I say of this fine member of your patrol who
+so bravely risked his own life to save that of a mother's baby? Only that
+his own mother has reason to thank God to-night because of such a son. We
+all love him!" and a tear fell on Jack's hand as the old man squeezed it.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI
+
+THE FIRE TEST
+
+
+"All here, Paul!"
+
+Jack saluted as he said this, and smiled to see the look the scout leader
+gave his scorched and discolored uniform.
+
+Although Jack had spent an hour and more that morning trying to clean up
+his suit and leggins, they showed many signs of the hard service to which
+they had been put on the previous night.
+
+Several of the fellows carried cameras. They had signed for the
+photographic test, and hoped to get some fine views of the troop in
+action. These would possibly be entered for competition when the other
+commands in the county lined up to strive for leadership in the last
+great event--the winning of the banner.
+
+Presently the town clock struck the hour.
+
+"Fall in!"
+
+Two by two they marched out of town. People came to the doors to watch
+them; and many a girl waved her handkerchief vigorously. But there was no
+response. Much as some of the lads might have liked to raise a hat, and
+send back an answering salute, they had already learned how to keep their
+eyes to the front, on penalty of being given bad marks that might tell
+against them later on.
+
+More than one parent looked to see how the boy nearest their hearts bore
+himself. Proudly they watched the long double line swinging down the
+street, keeping excellent step, considering how little time they had had
+for drill.
+
+Other boys there were who stood on the corners and mocked. Of course
+these were the followers of Ted Slavin, envious of the popularity already
+attained by Paul's patrol. Some of them had been at the fire, and
+witnessed the deed of daring carried out by Jack Stormways. Jealous of
+the other troop they tried to taunt them by various cries; but without
+success.
+
+However, most of them did not venture to tag after the marching corps.
+They knew that even the wonderful patience of these fellows would have
+its limit, and that a sudden turn might be made upon the tormentors that
+could hardly prove pleasant for the minority.
+
+Out of the town limits they went, still keeping step. Ted and Ward
+trailed behind, but there was no more taunting done.
+
+"They mean to follow, and see what we are up to," said Jack, when he came
+alongside the leader again.
+
+"Well, we can't stop them from doing that, I suppose. The woods are free
+to all. Let them look. If they can pick up a few pointers, well and good.
+When we lead, you know we can afford to laugh at those who follow,"
+returned the other.
+
+"Sure, because they'll never catch up with us in a year," laughed Jack.
+
+For a full mile they continued, never once breaking ranks.
+
+"We're nearly there, fellows. You're doing fine, I tell you. Keep it up
+through to the end. Why, you march like veterans already!"
+
+In this fashion did the scout leader warm every heart, and cause those
+who were beginning to tire of the jaunt to grit their teeth, and resolve
+that nothing must be allowed to interfere with the completion of the
+march.
+
+"Left wheel!" came the command, as the van drew abreast of an opening
+where a wagon road entered the woods.
+
+Still those two curious ones trailed in the rear, determined to ascertain
+what it was that took the Fox Patrols out of town this day.
+
+Presently, surrounded by the giant trees, still green with their summer
+foliage, Paul gave the command to halt and break ranks.
+
+Immediately the twenty-six lads began fraternizing. Those owning cameras
+started to look around for openings where some promising view offered.
+But most of the scouts clustered around the leader, eager to hear what
+the programme of the day would embrace.
+
+"First comes the fire test. There are a dozen fellows who have come
+prepared to qualify for that. And I think we shall have an interesting
+competition. Here, all who have hatchets get busy, and cut wood."
+
+Paul himself led the way, for he delighted in using the little camp axe
+which he often "toted" into the woods, when hunting or camping.
+
+The sound of chopping soon resounded through the timber, and by degrees
+quite a pile of wood had been accumulated. But all this was simply to
+loosen up the muscles of the competitors; for they were not to be allowed
+to use any of this fuel, which was for the main campfire.
+
+Once this had been started, Paul distributed a dozen tin kettles that had
+been brought along. These were all of the same size. Moreover, they had a
+plain mark two-thirds of the way up, which was to limit the amount of
+cold water from the near-brook which they must contain.
+
+"Here are five matches for each one of you. Every fellow is placed on his
+honor not to have a single other one in his possession. You are not to
+use any kind of paper in kindling your fires. Just imagine that you are
+adrift in the wilderness, where a newspaper is never seen. And in the end
+when a kettle begins to boil the owner of it must shout and raise his
+hand. I will have inspectors appointed whose duty it will be to see that
+all is fairly done."
+
+"Don't we get more than these five matches?" asked one of the
+contestants.
+
+"That is all. And remember, that if two are tied when the quart of water
+boils, the fellow who can show the most _unused_ matches comes in ahead.
+That is a valuable point, for it proves that he knows how to conserve his
+resources. A match is sometimes of priceless value to a man lost in the
+big timber."
+
+"Tell us again what we must do, Paul."
+
+"Form a line right here. When I say 'go,' every fellow dart off to some
+place he has in mind. With your hatchets you are to chop wood, and get a
+fire started as quick as you can. Then place your kettle on it, and keep
+on adding fuel until the water boils. I will time every contestant
+myself, and keep a record. But this is just a preliminary trial. We'll
+have another later on. Ready, all?"
+
+The twelve contestants lined up, while the others watched operations.
+Even the two outsiders had kept getting closer, so as to understand all
+that was done. And as Ward had his gold watch in his hand it was evident
+that he intended to do a little timing himself.
+
+"He wants to see how our best compares with what some of his fellows will
+do," remarked Jack, to Paul.
+
+"All right. He's welcome. The more the merrier. If they have any fellow
+who is more at home in the woods than Wallace Carberry for instance, I'd
+just like to know it," returned the other, promptly.
+
+"How about you, Paul? I guess Wallace would stand a mighty poor show if
+he ran a race with the head scout," returned the second in command.
+
+"That's something we've never settled yet. Wallace and I must have a
+chance at each other some day; but not yet. Now watch them scurry around.
+Every fellow has his mind made up where he can cut wood easiest. I've
+made them bring in all loose stuff, you see, so that they start on an
+even thing. Here goes!"
+
+Paul raised his hand, and exclaimed:
+
+"Go!"
+
+Immediately the dozen lads darted frantically off. Several came near
+having a collision right in the start, which would have been fatal to
+their chances for winning out; since the water in their kettles must have
+been spilled; and according to the rules of the contest they could not
+refill the same without journeying to the creek, which Paul had made sure
+was fully fifty yards distant.
+
+It was a laughable, as well as interesting sight.
+
+Having reached the various places mentally selected as the scene of their
+intended operations in fire building, the boys set down their kettles,
+and commenced to feverishly whack away at dead branches, or other wood.
+
+In several instances two of them happened to pick out the same place, and
+naturally there was considerable rivalry between them, as well as an
+exchange of remarks intended to irritate and delay.
+
+"Look at Wallace, will you!" observed Jack, presently; "nearly all the
+others have smoke going, but he's chipping away as steadily as you
+please. Why, he seems in no hurry at all. I guess he doesn't want to
+come in ahead!"
+
+"Wait, my boy," laughed Paul. "You don't know that sly fox. He's up to
+all the dodges at fire making, and believes in a good start. Some of
+those smokes never will amount to much, for they just struggle along, and
+threaten to go out because it takes all the puffing the fellows can give
+to keep them alive. Now he's going to strike up. Only one match needed
+with Wallace, you see."
+
+"And how his blaze jumps! You were right; he made sure he had enough fine
+kindling first, before starting in. Now he's adding larger stuff; and
+what's this he's doing with those stones?"
+
+"What do you suppose?" said the scout leader, nodding his head
+approvingly. "Making a little fireplace where he can perch his kettle,
+and have the hottest part of his fire under it. Note also that the
+opening is in the direction of the breeze. That allows the flame to be
+fanned. Wallace will never have to blow out his cheeks and puff to keep
+his blaze going."
+
+By this time some of the contestants were bobbing their heads to
+ascertain just how Wallace had done it; and made haste to follow suit.
+All were willing to take pattern from a past master who knew the wrinkles
+of the game.
+
+One upset his kettle, and despairing of having any show, withdrew from
+the race.
+
+Eleven fires kept on burning, some of them under protest, apparently,
+for they did not give much promise of landing their unlucky builders as
+victors.
+
+"How long is it?" asked Jack, presently, as certain signs caught his eye
+that told him the end was near.
+
+"Just nine minutes; but--"
+
+"Look at Wallace," cried Jack; "he's raising his hat. There goes an
+inspector to see. He nods his head. The water must be boiling; and who
+would have thought it? Hurrah for the Carberry Twin! Look at Ted and
+Ward! They act as if they thought there was some trickery, for they're
+running up to see. I guess they've tried this game, and come in under the
+wire in about fifteen minutes. Hello! there's Bluff calling out. Good
+boy! He's going to run Wallace a race next time. But I'd like to see you
+make the test, Paul?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII
+
+CLEARING SKIES
+
+
+Paul made no reply to this remark of his chum.
+
+Having studied the charms of outdoor life always, he knew that he would
+be placing his friends under a heavy handicap if he ever attempted to
+compete with them in woodlore.
+
+True, just as he said, Wallace was somewhat of an unknown quantity; for
+he, too, seemed to have a deep love for everything connected with life in
+the forest, and never tired of reading books that told of pioneers and
+their ways.
+
+The scout leader immediately started some of the boys along another tack.
+They were given a chance to find a lost trail, to detect all manner of
+signs such as would be apt to tell how long previously some one had
+passed that way; and to discover where the tracks came out of the creek,
+upon the bed of which the unknown had walked quite some distance.
+
+Of course, Paul had made the trail himself in the morning, running out
+here on his wheel so as to prepare the ground. And when they all failed
+to find out just how the party had left the creek, since the marked
+tracks did not seem to appear anywhere along the banks, he pointed to
+where the limb of a tree hung down over the water.
+
+"That's the ticket!" cried Bobolink, excitedly. "See, fellows, how it's
+skinned where his shoes scraped along it."
+
+"As sure as shooting he climbed up into that tree!" declared one,
+excitedly.
+
+"Then scatter, and examine the ground around the trunk!" said Paul.
+
+A minute or so later a happy whoop announced that one of the searchers
+had discovered the wished-for signs; and away the whole troop went on
+a trot, following the leader.
+
+Meanwhile the photographers managed to get in some of their efforts,
+possibly unbeknown to the rest. Exposures where the subjects are
+unconscious of their posing always turn out best; since they avoid
+stiffness, such as ruins so many otherwise interesting pictures.
+
+Here, with the woods for a background, Paul, acting by agreement as
+temporary scout master, drilled his followers in scout law, sign, salute,
+and the significance of the badges which they wore, all of them, of
+course, of the tenderfoot type, since few had as yet started to qualify
+for any higher plane.
+
+Signal flags had been brought along; and a class in semaphore work proved
+that some of the members of the troop were making rapid progress along
+that line. They had mastered the Morse code, too; and had the occasion
+arisen might have sent messages over the wire, although probably none
+save Paul could have received the same, unless the words came painfully
+slow.
+
+The afternoon passed almost before they realized it; and more than a few
+declared that the sun must have dropped like a plummet, when they found
+twilight creeping upon the forest.
+
+Both Ted and Ward had long since gone away, as though disgusted. They had
+tried to sneer at the work of Stanhope Troop No. 1; but every one knew
+this humor was assumed; and that secretly they were eating their very
+hearts out for envy.
+
+No doubt there would be a hot time among their followers, when the
+leaders endeavored to drive them to beat the record Wallace Carberry
+had set in his fire starting, and water-boiling test.
+
+"Suppose you come to supper with me, Paul," suggested Jack, when they
+were more than half way back to town, with the double column moving along
+like clockwork, every right leg thrust out in unison, as though forming a
+part of a well-regulated machine.
+
+Paul looked quickly at him when Jack said this.
+
+"Oh! I can see through a millstone, when it has a hole in it," he
+remarked.
+
+"Which is one way of saying that you can guess I have a motive in asking
+you?" returned the other, smiling queerly; "well, I have, in fact,
+several. In the first place my mother told me to ask you. I rather think
+she wants to pump you about that affair last night. Father wouldn't tell
+her all she wished to know. Then again I'm still all broken up about
+those lost coins; and I thought perhaps you might have guessed the answer
+to the riddle."
+
+"What's that? More of them gone, Jack?" asked Paul, lowering his voice,
+so that the two scouts at the tail end of the line might not hear.
+
+"Don't know yet. Didn't have the nerve to go up into my den since this
+morning. To tell the truth that place has lost all charm for me. Whenever
+I find myself there I get to shivering, and looking around, just like I
+half expected to see a ghost step out, and pick up one of those miserable
+coins right before my very eyes--ugh! it's horrible to feel that way, and
+I used to be so fond of my den, too."
+
+"Oh! I hope and expect you will be again, Jack, when we've settled this
+little thing. You say none of them were ever taken in the night?" said
+Paul, earnestly; while his knitted brows told how much he felt concerned
+over the mystery.
+
+"Certainly not. Always in broad daylight. That's the queer part of it,"
+returned the other, promptly.
+
+"Sure, seeing that they always go in the daytime, and when you're away
+from home, too. Anybody else going to be there to-night?"
+
+"To supper--oh! no. Karl went off after breakfast, to visit our uncle for
+a few days before school commences. I took him to the train myself, and
+then mustered up enough courage to climb up there, and once more count
+the coins," went on Jack.
+
+"Six there then, eh?" asked Paul.
+
+"Just as last night. And I purposely left the door unlocked."
+
+"Both door and window open in the bargain?" asked the other; at which
+Jack looked puzzled.
+
+"Of course; though that wouldn't matter at all; for any fellow could turn
+the knob, and walk in," he replied.
+
+"But the door was open, just like a plain invitation to enter, should
+anybody think of going up to see--say that again, please," continued
+Paul.
+
+"Well, I do say it again, though I can't understand why you should make
+that a point worth mentioning. Still, I have confidence in you, Paul. If
+anybody can get at the root of my trouble it's going to be you, old
+fellow."
+
+"I hope you prove a true prophet. As for myself I'm not saying anything
+just yet, one way or another," smiled Paul.
+
+"Yes, but I really believe that you've found out something that gives you
+a pointer, Paul. Your face tells me that. You're a wonder about following
+a trail in the woods. And I believe you see light in this darkness around
+me!" and Jack looked eagerly into the face of his chum as he said this.
+
+"All I'm going to confess is that I believe I'm on the trail, and that
+it seems to be getting warmer the further I go. Just hold your horses
+a little while longer, Jack, and perhaps I may be able to tell you
+something."
+
+"The way you smile gives me new courage, old fellow. Oh! I will be so
+glad if only it turns out all right. But here we are at the smithy. Shall
+you dismiss the troop here, Paul?"
+
+"Yes. The boys must be pretty tired after last night's work, and this
+hike; as well as the many stunts they went through with," and the
+temporary master scout presently gave the order to break ranks, and head
+for home.
+
+"Drop in at my house so I can tell my folks not to expect me to dinner,"
+said Paul, as they approached his home.
+
+There was not the slightest objection to the programme as arranged. His
+parents trusted Paul fully, knowing that, while as fond of fun as the
+next lad, he never did things likely to get him into trouble.
+
+"Now, first of all," remarked Paul, after they were indoors again; "let's
+go up, and make sure that anything has happened."
+
+The door to Jack's den stood wide open, inviting any one to enter.
+
+Jack had a match lighted in his hand, and with this he quickly touched
+the wick of a lamp. Paul heard him draw a long breath as he approached
+the spot where the little box lay upon the table desk at which stood the
+chair used by the owner of the den when taking his leisure here.
+
+He bent over, and seemed to be counting the coins. They dropped back into
+the receptacle one by one, and with such a ringing sound that even Paul
+was able to keep tally. Then Jack turned an anxious and white face
+around.
+
+"Paul, there are only four here. Two more have gone!" he said.
+
+"Yet you came up here and counted them; you are positive of that?"
+demanded Paul.
+
+"I counted them, and there were six. Five times I did it, to be sure; yet
+you saw that there were only four just now?"
+
+"You came up here after you saw Karl off on the train?" persisted his
+chum.
+
+"Yes, after I returned from the station. But what makes you ask that?
+Tell me why you are grinning so, Paul? I know I'm awfully dull just now,
+but who could blame me under the circumstances? Please speak up!" Jack
+insisted.
+
+"Why, don't you see, this clears Karl completely. Six here while he was
+riding away on the train this morning; and two taken when he is fifty
+miles away! Don't that satisfy you it wasn't your brother, after all,
+Jack?"
+
+And Jack dropped down in that chair, letting his head fall in his hands,
+while a great joy overspread his face.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII
+
+CARLO DOES HIS TURN
+
+
+"Paul, you're a wizard, I do believe!" said Jack, after a bit, as he
+looked up at his chum.
+
+"Well, I hardly think so. This thing was easy; and ten to one you'd have
+thought of it sooner or later. For how could Karl have anything to do
+with the bad business while he was up at your uncle's?" laughed the
+other, with his customary modesty.
+
+"But if not Karl, then who got my old coins?" persisted Jack, smiling
+now.
+
+"Well, I'm not quite ready to say. I've got two ideas I'm chasing after
+now. Give me just a little more time on that, will you, old fellow?"
+replied the visitor, as he dropped down on a cot, and let his eyes rove
+along the exhibit of college colors illuminating the walls.
+
+He drew the little box that held the coins toward him. When Jack was not
+observing, Paul took the contents out, one by one, and seemed to be
+examining them closely. He even scratched one with his finger nail, and
+the result appeared to please him, for he chuckled softly. Evidently he
+had made a discovery which he deemed important.
+
+Jack, having finished some little task with which he had busied himself,
+came back to his chum.
+
+"See here, Paul," he remarked; "I'm not going to ask you to tell me who
+it is you suspect; but do I know him?"
+
+"Sure," replied his chum; "and perhaps after we've found out the
+wonderful secret, you may even find it in your heart to look on it as
+a joke, and forgive him."
+
+"You don't say? Perhaps, though, I might hardly feel like forgiving a
+fellow who would be mean enough to sneak up here so often, and take my
+old coins. Think of the ugly feelings he's made me have toward my own
+brother. I'll never look Karl in the eye after this without feeling
+conscience-stricken. I don't know about forgiving him so easy as all
+that," grumbled Jack.
+
+"Oh! well, don't cross a bridge till you come to it. That's a good motto
+for you and for me. Perhaps there are times when I feel the need of it.
+Perhaps there's one right now," and Paul shrugged his shoulders as he
+spoke, half laughingly.
+
+"There, I knew that something had gone wrong with you lately. I've
+watched you when you thought I wasn't looking, and I've seen you frown.
+Suppose you take your old chum into your confidence, Paul? What's
+happened? Any trouble at home? Are you bothered over the Boy Scout troop
+we've been organizing? Is it about your school affairs?"
+
+Paul shook his head each time the other brought forward a suggestion.
+
+"You're a most determined fellow, Jack," he said, good naturedly; "and
+perhaps I hadn't ought to speak of such a thing to anybody; but we've
+been chums so long, and misery likes company, you know."
+
+"Then you _are_ in trouble; and you mean to confess to me? Thank you,
+Paul, for what you say. I don't think I ever had any cause for worrying
+that I didn't come straight to you for comfort. And I always got it,
+too."
+
+"Even when you and Dorothy had that nasty little spat that began to look
+serious until I just happened to find the note that made all the trouble,
+and forced Eli Kosmer to confess he wrote it. You remember that time,
+Jack?"
+
+"I guess I do. Dorothy often speaks of it to this day; for we're good
+friends, and always will be. But see here, why do you just happen to
+mention that business? Oh! I begin to see now," added Jack, as Paul
+turned red in the face, and laughed in a rather constrained way.
+
+"I shouldn't wonder but what you did. I'm sure I've denied every other
+cause you could think of," he said, sighing heavily.
+
+"It's Arline then. She's been doing something. Yes, I remember now that
+I saw her out riding with Ward Kenwood only yesterday. Say, that dude has
+been saying something that wasn't true about you, Paul, I'd just wager
+anything. He's gone and poisoned her ears with a yarn. It'd be just like
+the sneak!"
+
+"Just go slow, Jack. You're saying something that you can't prove. Of
+course I believe myself that Ward wouldn't stop at anything like that;
+but without the least proof I can't accuse him of it," Paul said,
+severely.
+
+"But you could ask Arline?" his friend went on.
+
+"Could I? Well, when a girl chooses to turn me down without a hearing,
+and even smiles when she drives past me in the company of a fellow she
+knows I detest, and whom she has often said she disliked, what then?
+Think I would so far forget myself as to get down on my knees, and beg
+her to take me back into favor? Bah!"
+
+"Is it so bad as that then? Oh well, there are other girls just as pretty
+as Arline; and you've always been a great favorite with them, Paul; but
+hold on, why not let me try to straighten this thing out? You've helped
+me all right; and tit for tat is fair play."
+
+"H'm! how do you think you could do anything, Jack? I don't suppose you'd
+care to go straight to her, and ask her point blank what I'd done to make
+her treat me so cruelly? I shouldn't think of allowing that at all?"
+
+Paul tried to display an air of indifference; but it was poorly assumed;
+and his chum knew full well that he was much more pained at these strange
+actions on the part of Arline than he cared to admit.
+
+"Oh! there are ways and ways. For instance, you know that Dorothy is one
+of the crowd of high school girls Arline goes with. Ward's sister Mazie
+is another; and that might account for her being at his house so much.
+Now, suppose you let me tell Dorothy. She'll keep it a dead secret, and
+in some way manage to get a confession. Say you will, Paul!"
+
+"Have it your own way, old fellow. I'm just about ready to wash my hands
+of the whole business. Besides, I've really too many irons in the fire to
+be bothering over the silly notions of girls."
+
+It was bravely put, but did not deceive Jack even a little bit; for he
+happened to know just how very fond his friend was of the particular girl
+in question.
+
+"All right, then. Consider that settled, and I won't say any more about
+it until I can report progress," remarked the latter.
+
+"Let's talk of other things than my poor affairs. You insisted on
+knowing; and wouldn't take no for an answer. Hello! there's Carlo asking
+to come in again. Shall I let him past the door, Jack?"
+
+"Why, of course. This is his den as well as mine. I keep sugar on tap, so
+as to put him through some of his paces. Here Carlo, how's your sweet
+tooth coming on?" and Jack snapped his fingers in a peculiar way.
+
+Immediately the educated dog squatted on his hind quarters, sat upright
+with his forepaws drooping appealingly, and waited, cocking his eyes in
+a humorous way at his young master, who had opened a drawer in his desk.
+
+"Just one piece left. Somebody else likes sugar as well as Carlo, I
+guess. Well, here you are, now. On trust, boy, on trust!"
+
+So saying he laid the piece of sugar upon the nose of the dog, balancing
+it so there could be no falling off.
+
+Carlo, knowing what was expected of him, sat there like a drum major,
+quivering with eagerness, yet not daring to move as long as he failed to
+hear the command.
+
+"Say, isn't he a sport, all right, Paul? Don't he sit up like a soldier?
+Look at his eyes fixed on me. Did you ever see such agony?"
+
+Paul was laughing now.
+
+"He's speaking with his eyes, and begging you not to stretch it out too
+far, Jack. Have a little mercy on the poor beggar. Look at his tongue
+coming out and reaching up. I think he just wants to taste that sugar.
+Give it to him now!"
+
+"Well, Carlo knows that he can't expect to have anything on trust; but
+it's a different thing when it's paid for!"
+
+With the last two words, spoken in a natural tone, Carlo became
+galvanized into sudden action. He had received the cue for which he was
+waiting so patiently. Immediately he made an upward spring; the lump of
+sugar was thrown into the air, and as it came down one quick snap secured
+it, after which there was a crunching of canine teeth, and a look of
+bliss appeared on Carlo's dog face.
+
+"There's the supper gong. Come on down to the bathroom and wash up, Paul!
+And you come, too, old dog. No more sugar here; see, the drawer is empty.
+Carlo never comes up here without sniffing at that drawer, and looking at
+me knowingly. Go ahead, Paul, and I'll put out the lamp."
+
+So they went downstairs, and after a while sought the dining room, where
+Paul met both parents of his chum, as well as a gentleman who was
+visiting Mr. Stormways.
+
+"Mr. Jared Pender, an old schoolmate of mine, and with whom I made
+several voyages abroad years ago," said Mr. Stormways. "He is in the
+employ of the Government now, and has to make visits all over the
+country, you know."
+
+Paul had once met a gentleman who was a post-office inspector, and
+somehow took it for granted that Mr. Pender might be engaged in some
+similar business; at any rate it concerned him not at all he concluded,
+just what the gentleman's private affairs might be, and he gave the
+subject little thought.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX
+
+THE WARNING OVER THE WIRE
+
+
+After supper the two boys once more ascended to the snuggery near the
+roof.
+
+There was no further reference made to either the disappearance of the
+old coins, or Paul's little heart trouble with his girl chum.
+
+They had a number of books loaned them by the good old minister and which
+were full of interesting facts connected with the wonderful Boy Scout
+movement, especially over in England, where it originated.
+
+Paul was deeply interested in picking out all features that would appeal
+to American lads. Until they had found the right party to take the
+position of troop master he wished to play the part of scout leader in
+such fashion that no one could pick a flaw with his management.
+
+Usually it is some adult to whom this important position is entrusted
+from the start; Paul, however, had long been known to be so deeply
+interested in many of the branches which concern life in the open, that
+his mates were only too glad to have him occupy the exalted position of
+leader for the time being.
+
+When they knew as much as Paul did, they believed they would be well
+qualified to pass for a first-class scout's assignment.
+
+So Paul, with the assistance of his comrade, was selecting many
+interesting competitions. By means of these the boys could be tested as
+to their knowledge of those things so important to the boy scouts.
+
+He made many charts showing the different footprints of wild animals, as
+well as those of the domestic cat and dog. By following the tracks of
+a rabbit a most interesting as well as instructive story could be made
+out. It was possible just from the marks on the ground, or the snow, to
+tell how the animal had been frightened into wild flight, by what sort of
+enemy it had been pursued, where the swoop of owl or eagle had brought
+specks of blood upon the leaves or white snow, and finally the picked
+bones of poor bunny would reveal the secret of the windup of the chase.
+
+So, in every case, the student of nature could weave a story out of
+the marks discovered. It was so in the days of the Indian, when old
+Leatherstocking and his long-barreled rifle were leading factors in the
+life of the wilds. Daniel Boone and his pioneers used to read such signs
+as easily as any boy might the pages of this book. And the deeper any lad
+dips into such fascinating studies the more he wants to learn.
+
+When half past nine came Paul said he must be going.
+
+"I've had a jolly evening of it, Jack, and enjoyed every minute with you.
+When we get the boys together again we can have half a dozen competitions
+going on at once," he said as he arose and stretched himself.
+
+"That's so," replied the other, following suit; while even Carlo arched
+his broad back, and prepared to follow them downstairs; "and the best
+of this thing is that the more you go into it the greater it gets. I'm
+fairly wild to keep it up."
+
+Just as the boys reached the lower floor the telephone bell rang, and
+Jack, being near, stepped over to the small table in the hall on which
+the receiver rested.
+
+"Yes, sure, he's here. Hold the wire," Paul heard him say, as he smiled;
+and then turning to his friend Jack continued: "here, Paul, take hold.
+Somebody wants to talk with you. Says he called up your house, and they
+told him you were over at my home."
+
+Paul of course wondered who could be wanting him so positively that he
+even followed him over to the Stormways house.
+
+"Hello! hello!" he said, quietly.
+
+"That you, Paul?"
+
+"It's Bobolink, I guess," remarked Paul, for the benefit of his chum who
+stood by, listening curiously.
+
+"That's right," continued the voice over the wire.
+
+"What's doing to make you chase me up this way, Number Three?" Paul went
+on.
+
+"That's the trouble; I just don't know for sure. But when I caught Ted's
+voice among the bunch I said to myself, they're up to no good; and I bet
+it's Paul they are laying for."
+
+"Hey! what's that? Who's laying for me, and where?" demanded the startled
+boy.
+
+"Listen, and I'll tell you all I learned. 'Taint much, but I know that
+critter so well that I wouldn't put it past him to try and knock you out,
+so that all our drilling in the woods would be upset, and his crowd get
+an advantage."
+
+"Oh! bosh! What's this you're giving me, Bobolink?"
+
+"Yes, I expected you'd say that. Think I'm stringing you, don't you,
+Paul? But I'm not, all the same. Listen again. Perhaps Ted and two of
+his cronies have gone and dressed up in some old Hallowe'en toggery until
+they look like a set of bears or hyenas just to frolic around a bit.
+Well, mebbe they have; but tell me just why they are hiding close to
+_your_ place?" continued the talkative yet determined Bobolink.
+
+"When did you see them?" demanded the other.
+
+"Not more'n eight minutes ago, Paul. Was comin' home myself. Been over
+to Bluff's house to fix up some surprises we expect to play on all you
+fellers later on, and show you what we know about this scoutin' business.
+On the way home I turned in and passed your house. Often come that way,
+you know," and the speaker paused as if for breath, or to hear Paul admit
+the fact.
+
+"Sure. Go on, you slow turtle. You've got me keyed up now to my top-notch
+curiosity. Give us the rest of the yarn," said Paul, eagerly.
+
+"Yarn! H'm! there you go, making out I'm hatching up a story. But take my
+word for it, Paul, three fellers are hidin' in the bushes close to your
+place, and expectin' some one to pass along in the dark. They started to
+jump out at me, and then I heard Ted's voice growlin' to 'em to fade
+away, that it wasn't the right one. Thought I'd just ask you if you could
+explain what it meant. When your mother told me you was over with Jack I
+saw a light, and that's what."
+
+"Well, I'm glad you told me, Bobolink. A good scout is always on the
+alert to do his comrade a clever turn; and I won't forget this. That
+all?"
+
+"But now I've told you, Paul, aren't you goin' to slip around the back
+way, and let them fellers take it out waitin'? Three to one is too much.
+They'll do you up, and make out 'twas only horseplay. Please give 'em the
+slip, Paul. We need you in our business, you know."
+
+"I'll see about it, Bobolink. Thanks, good-bye!" and Paul switched off.
+
+"Well, what's all this about?" asked Jack, as his chum turned toward him,
+with a frown on his face, and a gleam in his eye that the other knew
+stood for grim determination.
+
+"He says there are three fellows lying in wait in the bushes near my
+place, all rigged up in their Hallowe'en toggery; and that he believes
+they know I am over at your house. That's all," remarked Paul, with a
+little nervous laugh, and a clinching of his hands.
+
+"Good gracious! you don't say; three of them waiting to pounce on you!
+Did he seem to know who they were?" asked Jack, looking worried.
+
+"Well, you might guess that easy enough," replied Paul, scornfully.
+
+"Ted Slavin and some of his ugly ducklings?"
+
+"Bobolink says he recognized Ted's voice. And, I suppose my warm friend
+Ward is one of the others. He never loses a chance to get a dig in at
+me."
+
+"I don't know," returned Jack, thoughtfully; "to tell the honest truth I
+hardly think he can be one of the bunch, because his sister took Arline
+home with her to supper; and I guess Ward couldn't be coaxed out while
+_she_ is there."
+
+Paul winced, but said nothing.
+
+"Oh! well, it doesn't matter much after all. They're a lot of cowards, or
+else they wouldn't be concerned in such a low game. You can give them the
+slip by going around the back way," and Jack chuckled at the thought of
+those silly fellows waiting an hour or two for the expected victim who
+never came, and then going home in sheer disgust.
+
+Paul shook his head.
+
+"Now, that's just what Bobolink said, too; but I've made up my mind that
+I'm not going to sneak home, like a dog with his tail between his legs,"
+he said, shutting his teeth hard together.
+
+"You mean that you'll take the street that leads to the front of your
+house? Oh I well, they'll hardly tackle us when they see there are two,"
+remarked Jack.
+
+"And by that you mean you expect to go along. I won't let you do anything
+of the kind. Even if they allowed us to pass by, don't you think they'd
+be apt to take it out of you when you returned alone? No, I'm your
+superior officer, and I order you to stop right here where you belong;
+do you understand, Jack?"
+
+"Well," grumbled Jack, shaking his head as if convinced against his will;
+"I know you too well to try and go up against you when your mind's made
+up; but just the same I think it's a mean shame that you won't let me
+walk home with you. Think if they did jump out at us what a jolly time
+we'd have handing 'em more than they expected."
+
+"Give it up, old fellow. But I tell you what I can do. You remember that
+baseball bat of mine that's been lying over here so long? I'll carry it
+home now, and save you the trouble, thank you," nodded Paul.
+
+"Bully! a good idea. Here it is behind the door. And Paul, don't spare
+the measly bunch; but whack 'em good and hard."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX
+
+SUCH GLORIOUS LUCK
+
+
+Paul walked down the street, swinging the baseball bat carelessly, and
+softly whistling to himself.
+
+He left the street on which his chum's house fronted, and presently came
+to his own thoroughfare.
+
+"H'm!" he said to himself, as he boldly turned in here; "looks kind of
+half dark for a fact; but that always suits fellows up to a mean dodge. I
+musn't hit too hard, for this is an awful tough old bat, that has brought
+me in more than a few home-runs. Well, it's helping me make one now," and
+he actually snickered at the conceit.
+
+As he advanced he braced himself for the expected fray. Of old he knew
+Ted Slavin was a muscular fellow, capable of enforcing obedience from his
+slavish followers.
+
+What was that? He certainly heard the sound of voices a little further
+along. And somehow one of them seemed to give Paul a strange feeling;
+for he was positive that it was a girl's tones; and he recognized them
+too!
+
+Ward Kenwood was taking Arline home; and for some unknown reason chose to
+select this very street as a part of his route, although it was a little
+out of the way.
+
+How strange that they should all come together just at that very
+identical spot, where the trio of ambushed boys were crouching, ready to
+spring out.
+
+Ah! Paul caught sight of something moving close by. He felt sure that it
+must be the concealed fellows, launching their boom. Yes, now he could
+make out their figures as they emerged from the bushes on the jump.
+
+Some one screamed. It must be Arline, frightened by the appearance of
+these ugly, uncouth forms dancing upon the pavement.
+
+Instantly the greatest confusion existed, with the ambushers attacking
+Paul, to shout in consternation when he began to thump them heartily on
+the legs and backs with his baseball bat; and the girl standing there
+trying to shut out, with her clasped hands, the strange sight, seen so
+dimly in the half darkness.
+
+The patter of feet down the street told only too well where her protector
+had gone; but he was valiantly calling lustily for help as he ran.
+
+Met by such a determined opposition, overwhelmed by the shower of punches
+and whacks that seemed to be freighted with painful reminders; and
+startled by the cries of the fleeing Ward, not to mention the little
+shrieks of Arline, the three boys who had been the cause of all this
+excitement soon had enough.
+
+"Skip out, fellers!" roared Ted, as he almost doubled up when the
+swinging bat came with considerable force against his ribs.
+
+The others were only too willing to obey. Away they clattered after the
+fleeing Ward, who, hearing what he took to be a hot pursuit, let loose
+more vigorously than ever, still crying for assistance.
+
+Paul was laughing now, for the comical side of the thing seemed to have
+occurred to him. He took out a match and struck it. As the light flamed
+up, Arline, who had by now ceased her cries of alarm, possibly guessing
+the truth, stared at the face of the victor.
+
+"Oh! Paul! is it you?" she said; and somehow he seemed to understand that
+she was more than glad of the opportunity to make up with him.
+
+Boylike he pretended to hold back, and as the light went out, leaving
+them once more in the gloom, he remarked:
+
+"Yes, those fellows were lying in wait for me. They expected to give
+me a sound thumping; but I was warned and ready. I'm sorry that you were
+annoyed by the row, Miss Blair. I'll stay here with you until your
+company comes back. I think he must have gone for help!" this with some
+bitterness and scorn.
+
+She moved closer to him. Possibly the darkness made her afraid; and then
+again some other cause may have influenced her.
+
+Paul felt her hand on his arm, and was thrilled when she said:
+
+"Please don't mention him to me again. Oh! what a miserable coward, to
+run off and leave a girl that way. Won't _you_ take me home, Paul?"
+
+He could not say anything for a minute, he was so overcome. And perhaps
+Arline thought he must still be angry because she had treated him so
+shabbily of late.
+
+"Please, please do, Paul. I want to tell you how sorry I am for believing
+what came to me in a roundabout way. I'll never forgive myself, never!"
+she went on, clinging to his arms.
+
+Paul could hold out no longer.
+
+"Of course I will, Arline, and glad of the chance. Come on before anybody
+hurries out to see what all this noise means."
+
+So they walked down the street together, Paul with his faithful bat
+tucked under one arm, and a pretty girl clinging, oh! so confidingly
+to the other.
+
+But the boys of Stanhope often made more or less of a noise on the
+streets after dark, being filled with exurberant spirits; and so no one
+thought it worth while to investigate what all the racket meant.
+
+Paul heard what had been carried to the ears of Arline, and had no
+trouble in proving to her complete satisfaction that he was entirely
+innocent of the charge.
+
+"And to think that I allowed myself to believe it," said the girl, almost
+crying; "oh! Paul, will you ever forgive me? Nothing can ever make me
+listen to anything wrong about you again. I wonder if he had a hand in
+hatching that wretched story up. If I knew it I would tell him to his
+face what I thought of him!"
+
+"You mean Ward. Please don't do that. I really can't believe any fellow
+would be so mean and low. It must have been just accident that coupled my
+name with that affair. But I'm satisfied if you say we're going to be
+just as good friends as ever," Paul said, warmly.
+
+"Better than ever, I hope, Paul. I've had my lesson. It will never happen
+again, I promise you," she answered, pressing his arm as she spoke.
+
+So Paul saw her safely to her door, and then said good-night; but Arline
+insisted upon shaking hands with him; and the tingle of his fingers as he
+walked down the street made him laugh with joy.
+
+"What luck!" he kept saying to himself, as he made out to shake his own
+hand; "and what a mess of it Ward made of his chances. He thought to have
+the laugh on me if we met, and here the shoe is on the other foot. Oh!
+I'm not complaining a little bit. Everything's coming my way now."
+
+Nothing further happened on his way home. But when he reached the house
+his father met him with the announcement that Jack was holding the wire,
+and waiting for him.
+
+"On deck there!" he said, briskly, and heard an exclamation of relief.
+
+"How is it, Paul? Anything doing? Seemed to me I heard an awful racket
+over your way; but the nine-forty train was just coming in at the
+station, and drowned it out. Did they tackle you, son?" demanded Jack,
+eagerly.
+
+"Did they? Well, I guess some! Ask Ted," chuckled the one addressed.
+
+"You're laughing, and that tells me you enjoyed the circus. What did you
+do to poor old Ted and his cronies, Paul?" entreated the other.
+
+"I could tell you easier what I didn't do to 'em, Jack. I gave the boys
+about every style of punch and jab I could think of, and with my home-run
+bat too. Oh! make up your mind they're going to be a sore lot in the
+morning. And if you run up against Ted, just sniff the air for arnica. My
+word for it, he'll empty the bottle to-night on his bruises."
+
+"Bully! bully! and again bully! I would have rushed to assist you only
+you made me promise to keep my hands off; and you're my superior officer,
+you see. Besides, I reckoned that with such a hunky-dory bat you'd be
+able to give just pie, which you did, Paul."
+
+"But the half hasn't been told yet," went on the narrator.
+
+"What! do you mean there's a sequel to this story?" asked Jack, burning
+with eagerness apparently, to hear.
+
+"I guess that's what it is. Listen. Ward was just taking a young lady
+home. He chose to pass along our street, though now he wishes he hadn't;
+for they arrived just when Ted and his backers jumped out of the bushes.
+She screamed, and her escort sprinted down the street for help. After I
+had punched and pounded the three Hallowe'en left-overs from last year
+until they faded away, I had the pleasure of seeing the young lady to her
+door, yum! yum!"
+
+"Hurrah! and I bet all differences are patched up again between you!"
+cried Jack.
+
+"Everything is lovely, and the goose hangs high," sang Paul.
+
+"Meaning poor old blundering Ward. He showed himself for a coward to
+the girl he's sweet on. Oh! my, oh! me, how is the mighty fallen.
+Congratulations, good friend, and then more of them. So the clouds have
+disappeared along your horizon, just as they did on mine. I only wish I'd
+had a hand in clearing your skies."
+
+"So you did. You kept that baseball bat of mine until the right minute
+came. Only for that my name might have been mud," laughed Paul.
+
+"And if you'd only open your heart now, and give me a hint about the
+fellow you believe has been playing that trick on me with my old
+coins--"
+
+"Just you wait a little. It's coming soon. So-long!" and with a click the
+connection was cut off.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI
+
+THE MEETING
+
+
+"How are you, Paul?"
+
+It was Mr. Jared Pender who came out of the post-office as Paul happened
+to be passing the next day, and addressed the boy he had met on the
+preceding evening at the house of the Stormways.
+
+"Why, how do you do, Mr. Pender? Been at work, I see," replied Paul, with
+a suggestive look in the direction of the post-office.
+
+The tall dark gentleman looked a little perplexed, and followed Paul's
+glance. Then an expression of understanding passed over his face.
+
+"Ah! yes, I see, you are a good guesser, Paul. But please do not mention
+the fact to any one. We Government officials sometimes have to work
+_sub rosa_, as the saying is; that means without any one knowing what we
+are at. You understand, Paul?"
+
+"Yes, sir, I guess I do; but I hope there's nothing wrong here at our
+post-office. We all think the world of Mr. Mygatt, and his clerks," said
+Paul.
+
+"Oh! don't mention such a thing. We have to investigate many times just
+to discover how smoothly things are going on. Isn't that Jack's dog
+coming out with a package of papers in his mouth? Has he actually been
+down for the mail?" went on the gentleman.
+
+"That's Carlo, all right. Sometimes they give him the mail when there are
+no letters, as you see."
+
+"And will he carry the bundles home safely, without stopping to play with
+other dogs, or to fight?"
+
+"Oh! Carlo knows his duty. He never forgets what is expected of him.
+There, sir, look at him halting for a minute at the open door of the
+butcher shop, to wag his tail, and peep in. It smells mighty inviting to
+him, I wager; but will he go in? Not much. See, there he goes along,
+heading straight for home. If another dog picked a fight with him, Carlo
+would lay that package down, give the cur a good licking, then pick the
+papers up again, and trot along."
+
+"I see you know his traits well, Paul," remarked the gentleman, smiling.
+
+"Some of them, but not all. He's a great dog, all right, and Jack's fond
+of him."
+
+"I suppose money couldn't buy him, then?" suggested Mr. Pender.
+
+"It would be useless to try it, sir, I think. Will you stay long with Mr.
+Stormways?"
+
+"That I cannot say. My business may be completed in a day, and it may
+keep me in this vicinity for a week. That depends on circumstances. You
+have been around more or less, Paul; do you happen to remember seeing a
+large red touring car, with a khaki-colored cover, and occupied by two
+men, one of whom has a glass eye?"
+
+Paul stared at the tall gentleman, as though he thought at first the
+other might be joking him; but seeing not a ripple of a smile on the dark
+face, he changed his mind.
+
+"Why, no, sir; I can't seem to remember seeing that particular car. Of
+course red ones are common; but most of them have black tops, if any at
+all. Some friends of yours, Mr. Pender?" he remarked, naturally.
+
+The gentleman allowed just a twinkle to appear in the corners of his eyes
+as he nodded his head, and said:
+
+"Well, er--yes, very particular friends of mine, Paul, and whom I would
+be glad to see again right now. If you happen to sight such a machine,
+and I am still at my old friend, Stormways, I wish you would let me know
+about it."
+
+"I certainly will, sir; and perhaps you'd like me to speak to the
+gentlemen, and tell them how anxious you are to see them?" Paul went on;
+at which the other gave a laugh.
+
+"I see you are on to me, my boy. You guess that such is the very last
+thing I would want you to do. Now, I'm going to take you into my
+confidence, Paul," he went on, bending his head lower, and giving a quick
+glance around.
+
+"Yes, sir; that's very kind of you, Mr. Pender," said the lad, smiling.
+
+"Oh! I don't know. I have an axe to grind in doing so; for I believe
+that you can be of assistance to me. The two men in that motor car are
+criminals, for whose capture I have come to this part of the country,
+Paul."
+
+"Goodness! that sounds interesting, sir. What have they been doing?"
+asked the young scout leader, with boyish curiosity brimming over.
+
+"I won't tell you that, Paul; but they are wanted by the Government. And
+sometimes we agents have to go about our business with great caution, in
+order to discover enough evidence on the suspects to convict. So, above
+all things, I do not wish to alarm these clever gentlemen unduly, lest
+they manage to hide, or get rid of the only burden of proof. In other
+words, as a common expression has it, I want to get them with the goods
+on. You understand?"
+
+"Yes, sir; I think I do. And if I see or hear anything about that red
+car, I'll tell you. But is it true that you and Jack's father were chums
+long ago?"
+
+"That's the positive truth, my boy," replied the agent, nodding; "why, we
+took several voyages together, and had lots of queer adventures. I never
+dreamed that my wild old friend Alan would settle down to this humdrum
+life, as a lumber merchant, and the head of a family. But I suppose it
+all came of his meeting a girl. And after knowing his fine wife I don't
+blame him a bit; though I've kept right along in the same old groove, and
+see more or less of adventure."
+
+"He's a mighty fine man, and they think lots of him here," declared Paul,
+who was amazed to learn that his chum's parent could have, once upon a
+time, been reckoned a wild blade.
+
+Paul walked on with his lips puckered up as if whistling, and his face
+filled with the new interest that had taken possession of him.
+
+He had read accounts in the papers of Boy Scouts being concerned in many
+useful enterprises; and he wondered whether he and his patrol might not
+find a chance to assist the officers of justice in rounding up a couple
+of rogues who had apparently broken the laws of the land.
+
+Then other things came up to draw his attention elsewhere.
+
+He ran across boys on the street, who asked dozens of questions about the
+many interesting features of the new organization.
+
+These were often lads who had begun to think of uniting with one of the
+rival troops; and Paul was only too glad to give them all the information
+in his power.
+
+They wanted more recruits, provided the applicants were of the right
+sort. Those their committee rejected might find solace in joining forces
+with Ted's crowd, who, not being at all particular, would receive them
+with open arms.
+
+That afternoon there was another meeting in the woods, at which every
+member of Stanhope Troop No 1, as they now determined to call their
+organization, did his best to be present.
+
+Paul had given several of the boys duties to perform, that were part and
+parcel of the grand scheme to whip his company into first-class shape in
+a shorter time than it had taken any other troop.
+
+Reports were received and filed of numerous things done which would count
+in the final summing up. These were to be accompanied by vouchers from
+the persons interested, which could be filed away for inspection when the
+committee appointed by the giver of the fine banner looked through the
+records of the several patrols competing for the prize.
+
+Andy Flinn and Philip Towns reported that they had cleaned up the
+beautiful green in front of the town high school, and which was generally
+known as the campus. It was kept mowed by the town authorities; but
+numerous scraps of paper and trash, blowing hither and thither in the
+wind, gave it an unsightly appearance.
+
+"Never forget that you have taken our campus under your protecting care,
+Numbers Three and Four of the Gray Fox patrol," said the head scout,
+after reading the report; "of course it is always your privilege to
+enlist smaller boys in the job, if you can do so without actually hiring
+them. That is expressly forbidden."
+
+Then came Wallace Carberry and Tom Betts, telling how they had started
+a crusade to cover the entire town with receptacles to contain stray
+rubbish. Half a dozen cans had already been ordered, each one of which
+was to have in startling red letters the significant picture of a staring
+eye, and followed by the words, "Eat Trash!"
+
+"We've got a contribution box ready, and every scout is privileged to
+drop in pennies and nickels that he has earned. No others accepted; and
+no larger amount at one time from any boy desired. Have already enough to
+pay for two of the cans; and hope to increase the order soon!"
+
+Cheers greeted this announcement. Others, who had heard about the good
+work being started by Numbers Seven and Eight of the Red Fox patrol,
+arose to announce that their mothers had promised to throw all sorts of
+opportunities for earning money in their way, if it was to be devoted
+to such a fine purpose.
+
+"The Women's Club is to bring this thing up at its next meeting. My
+mother says it shames them to know that the boys of the town are taking
+such a leading part in cleaning it up," said Bobolink, when he found an
+opening.
+
+"Who's next to report?" asked Jack, who had charge of this end of the
+meeting; while the "honorable secretary" made notes, and filed away the
+various papers submitted.
+
+Immediately all eyes were turned toward Bobolink and Bluff, which team
+was known as Three and Four.
+
+Bluff started to rise, when a groan greeted him; but he was not dismayed.
+
+"Our r-r-report will be d-d-delivered b-b-by my c-c-confederate!" he
+simply said, and subsided with a grin, as though he thought he had
+hoodwinked his friends.
+
+Bobolink arose slowly. When he chose he could be very tantalizing; though
+in an emergency none might excel him in speedy action. But when he had
+something to tell that he knew was being eagerly awaited, he liked to
+keep his chums in suspense just as long as he dared.
+
+Immediately all sounds died away. Every one seemed to know that Numbers
+Three and Four had been delegated to attempt an actual scouting trip that
+morning, into a hostile territory, so as to learn what progress a rival
+camp was making in the various degrees of efficiency.
+
+They had already heard about Manchester, and a few believed that they
+would have little difficulty in excelling that town when it came down
+to an actual test.
+
+With Aldine it was different. From all sources had come hints to the
+effect that the troop in that town was working most faithfully, with an
+eye on that coveted banner. And every scout in Paul's patrol felt wild to
+know how much truth there might be in these reports.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII
+
+SCOUTING IN EARNEST
+
+
+"Hurry up, old molasses! Winter's coming."
+
+"Hit up the pace, won't you, please, Bobby?"
+
+Bobolink grinned. This was apparently just what he liked. When, however,
+he saw a restless movement among some of the more impatient, as though
+they were stooping down to gather chips to shy at him, he knew the time
+had come to open those sphinx-like lips, and speak.
+
+"Mr. Chairman, ladies and gentlemen," he began, when a roar interrupted
+him, so that he pretended to hastily remedy his error--"I mean just
+gentlemen; I have the honor to report that your committee waited on the
+brothers of the Aldine troop, though unbeknown to their keenest scouts,
+and watched the entire operations at their called meeting this morning."
+
+"Good! Fine! Keep it up, Old Leatherstocking!"
+
+"We learned that they are working like mad to excel in all the arts that
+interest the scouting fraternity. Competitions were being run off in
+every branch of the woodcraft business. We saw fires started, camps made,
+trails followed, boats mended, fish flies tied, rods that had been made
+by single members; we heard of all sorts of clever things that were being
+done in Aldine that would give the troop marks in the grand round-up. We
+listened to splendid speeches from the really efficient scout master, and
+our hearts warmed within us toward the gallant foe against whom we must
+soon be pitted; just as our bones ached because we had to squat there
+high up in that tree over their camp, like a couple of roosting monkeys."
+
+"Hear! hear! Bully for our monkeys! They're all to the good!" shouted
+some of the more demonstrative boys, waving their hats wildly.
+
+Bobolink stopped to give a few melancholy dabs at his thighs, just as
+though they still ached from the long service in the tree; while Bluff
+managed to emit a series of sympathetic groans.
+
+Then the orator took up his theme again; and when Bobolink chose he could
+even run Wallace Carberry a warm race on the school rostrum.
+
+"Some people might think that it was hardly fair in us to spy on our
+rivals; but we are running our troop under strictly military rules. It's
+always fair to try and find out what you are going to be up against when
+entering a competition. We are badly handicapped, because both of these
+other troops in the county have been working all summer; and we've got to
+come up from behind in our attempt to capture the prize. That's right,
+isn't it, fellows?"
+
+"Sure! We only want to know if they're going to make a big fight; or
+whether they expect to have a walk-over. Besides, I happen to know that
+there was a Bald Eagle from Aldine watching us work yesterday. He had
+a field glass, and was hidden where he could see all that went on."
+
+It was Jud Elderkin who made this astonishing declaration; and what he
+said created quite a stir among the assembled scouts.
+
+"All right. We didn't go there expecting to steal any of their thunder,
+fellows," said Bobolink.
+
+"Of course not," asserted the nearest scouts.
+
+"Well, how did you find it?" demanded William.
+
+"I didn't see that they had anything on us. Of course they did lots of
+things better, because they've had a heap more experience; but there's
+time between now and Thanksgiving for the scouts of the Stanhope troop to
+get a move on, and shake all rivals out of their boots. That's all," and
+Bobolink made a sudden duck to get out of the lime-light.
+
+"Hurrah! Well done, Three and Four of the Red Fox patrol! Whenever we've
+got any more climbing to do, we know where to get the monkeys!" cried
+William, with a mock bow in the direction of the blushing Bluff, and the
+grinning Bobolink.
+
+"I congratulate the scouts on the way they carried out their mission. It
+was worthy of the annals of Cooper. May I ask how they learned just where
+the camp of the Aldine Troop was to be pitched?" asked Paul.
+
+Bluff was no longer to be repressed; but sprang erect.
+
+"I d-d-discovered that they always w-w-went to a p-p-particular
+p-p-place; and w-w-when we s-s-saw that noble tree, why, we j-j-just
+l-l-looked at each other, and s-s-shook hands. Then we c-c-climbed up
+before the f-f-first eagle f-f-flew that way. T-t-thank you gentlemen
+f-f-for your k-k-kind attention."
+
+"Wow! he got that in pat, all right. When Bluff makes up his mind to
+hustle he can beat the band. I move a vote of thanks to these most
+efficient scouts," said Wallace, pushing forward.
+
+They were given with a will; after which other reports came to show what
+was being accomplished in numerous lines.
+
+The troop photographers produced their prints, which were passed around
+for examination, and brought forth an abundance of good words. To see
+themselves in the new suits of khaki made many a fellow's heart thrill
+with pride.
+
+"We must have a meeting every day up to the beginning of school,"
+declared the acting scout master, finally; "for these busy Eagles have
+stolen a march on us while we slept; and we've just got to hustle now to
+catch up."
+
+"But we've got some mighty fine things to our credit already, and don't
+you forget it, boys. I haven't heard of a horse being stopped, and a
+child's life saved over in Aldine or Manchester," declared Wallace, with
+a proud glance toward Paul.
+
+"Or any account of the rival troops attending a fire in a body, and
+working to beat the band until their new uniforms were next to ruined,"
+spoke up Nuthin'.
+
+"I guess the boys of Manchester must feel pretty small when they listen
+to the story of how a Red Fox scout walked right into a burning building,
+and snatched up a baby that had been forgotten; hey, how about that,
+fellers?" shouted William, pointing his finger at Jack.
+
+"We're hitting up the pace. We're going strong, and bound to make things
+hustle right up to Thanksgiving Day! Every fellow do his level best to
+bring that banner home to Stanhope!" cried Jud Elderkin.
+
+"We can do it!" yelled half a dozen in chorus.
+
+"Why, its easy money, boys. Just organized, and not a second class scout
+in the troop yet, but look at what we've done. Give us a little time,
+and we're going to make the Beavers and Bald Eagles, and all the rest
+of 'em, sit up and take notice!" avowed Nuthin'.
+
+"And wait until you hear the inspiring sound of my bugle, which I expect
+to have at the next meeting," said Bobolink, proudly.
+
+"Huh! that won't h-h-hold a c-c-candle to my d-d-drum!" declared Bluff,
+waving his arms wildly, as though he could already imagine the great fun
+in store when that instrument came to hand.
+
+And so the meeting broke up, with the scouts disbanding for the day. Some
+lingered to try once more the various stunts that interested them most.
+It seemed as if every fellow's heart might be wrapped up in the desire to
+win that coveted trophy, and bring the banner to his home town.
+
+Strange to say there had not been a single mention of the other Stanhope
+organization. None of them believed that Ted and Ward would be able to
+make the least show in the competition. They knew the habits of these
+fellows only too well. As a rule, they never won, save through trickery;
+and in the eyes of the committee appointed by the donor of the banner,
+anything that smacked of double dealing would be rigidly barred from the
+game.
+
+Paul and Jack, as usual, walked home together, arm in arm.
+
+As the recognized leaders in the movement that had so lately struck the
+boys of Stanhope, they must always have much to talk over.
+
+Besides that, they had their own personal affairs to discuss.
+
+"Well," said Jack, finally, when they found that they were alone, the
+nearest comrades being far behind on the road; "the four coins are still
+there in the snug little box, Paul."
+
+His companion looked quickly at him.
+
+"You carried out my suggestion then?" he asked.
+
+"Yes. The door has been closed and locked all day. Even the window was
+shut down and fastened," replied Jack.
+
+"That made the little den as tight as a drum, eh?" laughed his chum.
+
+"I should say it did. If any one got in there to-day he would have to
+slip through the keyhole," came from Jack.
+
+"Unless he happened to have a duplicate key," Paul went on, seriously.
+"And since you found the four coins there that could hardly have
+happened. Sure you counted four, are you?"
+
+"That's positive," returned his companion; "but to tell the truth I did
+get a little scare. At first I counted only three."
+
+"But you found the fourth all right, Jack?"
+
+"Oh! yes," replied the other. "It was gummed fast to the side of the box.
+I had to scrape it off before I put it back. But when do you mean to tell
+me what you know about this strange affair, Paul?"
+
+"I guess to-morrow," answered his chum.
+
+"Bully for you. I'll be glad to get it off my mind. What do you want me
+to do, Paul, in the meantime?"
+
+"Nothing," came the ready response.
+
+"Shall I leave the den shut up as it is, then?" demanded Jack.
+
+"Until I see you in the morning, yes," laughed Paul. "Don't be surprised
+if I pop in on you unexpectedly. Perhaps I may not want any one to see me
+go in your house, and so I might come by the back door."
+
+Jack looked at him in a whimsical way and shook his head.
+
+"You've got me guessing, all right, my boy," he declared.
+
+Paul instantly changed the subject, after a way he had.
+
+"The boys are getting on fine in that water boiling test, aren't they?
+Four had it in nine minutes, and Wallace beat his own record by nearly
+half a minute. That is going to be one thing Stanhope must excel in," he
+said.
+
+"Yes," remarked Jack, falling in readily enough with his companion's
+desire to "talk shop," "and those photographs couldn't well be beaten.
+What a lot of new and interesting facts some of the trackers have dug out
+of the trails they followed. The papers read fine. Paul, I really begin
+to believe we're going to make a strong bid for that banner."
+
+Paul did not reply, and on Jack turning his head to ascertain why, he
+found his chum staring at a red automobile that had just whizzed past!
+
+It had a khaki-colored top!
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII
+
+THE RED CAR
+
+
+"What's the matter with you, Paul?"
+
+Jack asked this question, for of course he could not understand why his
+chum should take such a deep interest in any automobile that passed them
+on the road.
+
+"Did you happen to see inside that red car as it went by?" asked Paul,
+turning eagerly on his friend.
+
+"Why, er--yes, I did chance to be looking over your shoulders just then;
+I was a little afraid the wheels might graze you," admitted Jack.
+
+"Do you know the machine, then?" asked the other, in some suspense.
+
+"Don't believe I ever saw it before; but then, what of that? Don't dozens
+pass along here every day, that come up from the city? It's common to see
+a strange car, even if it has got a khaki-colored top, instead of a plain
+black one. Hey, Paul! what ails you?" demanded Jack.
+
+"It wasn't Colonel Strange, was it?" asked the other; for the gentleman
+mentioned happened to possess a red auto.
+
+"Of course it wasn't, because his car has a black top; and besides,
+neither of the two men was the fat colonel," replied Jack, immediately.
+
+Paul had learned something already.
+
+"Then there were two men in it, you say?" he went on, casually, as though
+much of his interest had abated.
+
+"Yes, and one of them was staring at me to beat the band. Perhaps he has
+lost a boy, and thinks I look like him. Don't let him kidnap me, will
+you, Paul?" went on Jack with pretended anxiety, as he clung to his
+companion's arm.
+
+"Say, look there, the car's stopped. I believe they're waiting for us!"
+declared Paul, in some excitement.
+
+"Well, that's what gave me such a scare, you see. That's why I'm shaking
+all over, Paul. But in union there is strength; and I'm going to hang on
+to you, if he tries to coax me to get aboard. I'm not in the long lost
+class."
+
+"Oh! come along, and let's see what they want. He's leaning over the top
+now, and keeps beckoning to us."
+
+Paul started on a run. He could feel his heart beating very hard; indeed
+it was strange, he thought, that his companion did not hear it pounding
+away, and make some sort of remark.
+
+The chance that he had been hoping for seemed to be within his grasp. Not
+only had he discovered a car that answered the description of the one
+mentioned by Mr. Pender; but the occupants were plainly desirous of
+obtaining information of some sort, and had selected him and Jack as the
+ones most likely to give it.
+
+As he hurried on, he tried to control himself. It would never do to show
+more than natural curiosity in his actions. If these two men were the
+ones the gentleman stopping at Jack's house wanted to find, they must be
+smart enough to read his secret, unless he took warning.
+
+No sooner had he come abreast of the car than looking up he found himself
+staring into the dark face of a man who had a cruel look about him. What
+thrilled Paul, however, was the fact that one of his eyes was undoubtedly
+artificial. He had guessed this fact when Jack stated that the party
+_stared_ so at him.
+
+All doubt was gone now, and he understood that by the strangest of luck
+he had come upon the parties for whom Mr. Pender was searching. The
+official must have known that they were headed this way for some purpose
+or other.
+
+"Live around here, bub?" asked the man with the glass eye, as he looked
+piercingly at Paul.
+
+"Yes, sir; in Stanhope," replied the boy, surprised himself to find how
+steady his voice turned out to be under the trying circumstances.
+
+"How far ahead is that place?" continued the man.
+
+"About half a mile, sir. You can see the steeple of the Methodist church
+after you turn that bend ahead," and Paul pointed with a steady finger.
+
+"Huh! I wonder now if either of you happen to know a Mr. Solus Smithers?"
+and as he put the question the man shot a quick glance toward his
+companion; at which the shorter party nodded his big head, and grinned
+approvingly.
+
+Paul turned to his chum.
+
+"Say, Jack, isn't that the name of the man who took the old Grimes farm
+up at the milldam?" he asked, though he knew positively that it was so.
+
+"Smithers--why, yes, I reckon it is. Is he a tall man, with a hooked
+nose; and does he dip snuff?" queried Jack, innocently enough.
+
+"That's Solus to a dot. You see, boys, he's from North Caroliny, where
+even the wimmen use snuff, only they rub it on their teeth with a stick.
+Now, mebbe one of you boys would be so obligin' as to direct us to the
+shortest way to where this old mill stands," continued the man with the
+bogus orb.
+
+"I guess the quickest way to get there is to drive through Stanhope, and
+pick up the Deerfield road on the other side. It's only a few miles off;
+but the road turns lots of times to avoid the hills."
+
+Paul noted that the taller man seemed to invariably look to his companion
+for support. It was as though they worked in common, and neither wished
+to become responsible for action without the other's assent.
+
+After an interchange of low words, which the boys did not catch, the
+spokesman once more turned around. He held a silver half dollar in his
+hand.
+
+"Here's something for your trouble, boys. But look here, ain't there
+another way to get to that old abandoned mill without going through the
+town? To tell you the truth we lost our number away back, and might get
+hauled up because we can't show a tag on the back of the car."
+
+Paul had already noticed this significant fact. It is the business of a
+scout to take note of even trifles. One of the tests of memory is to look
+in at a store window for just one full minute; and then, going away, make
+out as complete a list of articles it contained as is possible.
+
+And still, he did not believe that this was the true reason these men
+disliked passing through Stanhope if it could be avoided. Perhaps they
+had some suspicion that Mr. Pender was visiting there; and did not want
+to take chances of his meeting them face to face.
+
+"Sure there is," broke in Jack, who saw no reason why he should not
+believe the artful excuse given; for Jack did not know all his chum had
+learned about these parties; "after you pass the bend yonder, just turn
+to the left. You can't miss the road, for its got a big maple tree right
+at the junction. We call that the Grapevine Road, because it twists and
+turns so; but it will fetch you out right at the old dam, mister."
+
+Many a time had Jack himself walked along that same winding path when
+coming home with a string of bass, taken in the mill pond. It was longer,
+to be sure, but there were some fine apple trees on the way; and the walk
+through the dense woods was so much more enjoyable on a hot summer day
+than the open stretch that marked the other route.
+
+The man flipped the coin in the air, and as it fell at Paul's feet he
+felt constrained to stoop and pick it up. To do anything else might have
+aroused the suspicions of the man who stared. And at the worst it meant
+another contribution toward the various funds which the boys were raising
+for many purposes.
+
+Boys as a rule have little objection about receiving "tainted money." And
+while Paul understood that these men had been breaking some of the laws
+of the land, he was not supposed to know the particular way in which
+their money had been gained.
+
+"Much obliged for the information, boys; and please don't report us in
+town as being short a license tag. We'll get a new one just as quick as
+we can. So-long!"
+
+As the shorter fellow started the machine his companion waved his hand at
+the two chums on the road, both of whom of course returned the salute.
+
+Jack watched his friend out of the corner of his eye as they walked on.
+Perhaps he was entertaining a dim suspicion that Paul might be keeping
+something from him.
+
+But he asked no questions; and the other volunteered no information. A
+scout is supposed to know when to hold his tongue, especially when in
+the company of his superior officer; and so Jack let the matter drop.
+
+"See, they've turned in, all right, Paul," he said, as he pointed to the
+broad marks of heavy tires leaving the main road, and passing under the
+spreading maple that stood at the junction with the Grapevine.
+
+"That's so," returned Paul, apparently not in the least interested; and
+yet as they continued to walk briskly toward home he frequently turned a
+wistful look over his left shoulder, as in fancy his thoughts followed
+those two strangers up to the old farmhouse at the mill pond.
+
+Who was this Solus Smithers? Could he be in league with these two men
+whom the Government expert was sent to watch? Paul remembered that he had
+heard several people talking about the man and his ways. He seemed to
+have plenty of money, yet he made no effort to farm the place he had
+rented that summer.
+
+As soon as they reached town he started to accompany his chum home,
+hoping to have an opportunity to see Mr. Pender in secret.
+
+Catching sight of that gentleman walking down for the evening mail,
+he made some excuse and broke away from Jack; who looked after him in
+bewilderment, grieved because Paul, for once, seemed to be keeping some
+secret from him.
+
+Mr. Pender presently came out of the post-office. He had a letter in his
+hand, and was apparently much displeased at what it had contained.
+
+"Why, hello! Paul, my boy! Glad to see you. How is the patrol coming on?
+Some day you must allow me to watch your manoeuvers up there in the
+woods. I'm deeply interested in all such goings-on, you know," he said,
+shaking hands, heartily.
+
+"Yes, sir; I'll ask the boys for permission to invite you," began Paul.
+
+"Were you looking for me, my boy?" asked the other suddenly, his keen
+eyes having doubtless detected something in the manner of the young
+scout master that gave him his idea.
+
+"Yes, sir, I was," replied the one addressed.
+
+"I wonder now if, on the top of bad news from Washington, you could be
+about to bring me new hope. Have you learned anything you want to tell
+me, Paul?"
+
+"I've seen that red auto, and talked with the gentleman who has the glass
+eye!" said the boy, trying in vain to keep his eager voice from trembling
+with excitement.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV
+
+A CALL FOR HELP
+
+
+Mr. Pender swooped down and seized Paul's hand, which he squeezed so
+heartily that he almost made the tears come to the boy's eyes.
+
+"That sounds good to me, my boy. Please tell me about it. Where was it at
+the time? And do you think it can have gone beyond Stanhope? I hope you
+didn't give the gentleman any idea that you had ever heard a word about
+him or his car?"
+
+"Oh! I give you my word, sir, that they never dreamed I knew a thing
+about them. A scout has to learn how to keep his feelings in check, you
+see, Mr. Pender. I acted just as naturally as Jack did; and he knew
+nothing."
+
+"Well, tell me about it now, please."
+
+Stopping at the corner, Paul started in to relate all the incidents
+connected with that meeting on the road. The gentleman hung upon every
+word. He certainly looked pleased, and Paul realized that he had done
+something worth while. To his credit be it said that never once had he
+entertained the thought of receiving any sort of reward for his services.
+
+"All this is of the greatest importance to me, my boy. I am frank to
+tell you that the successful capture of those two men you have so ably
+described, thanks to your scout training, will mean much to me. And
+depend upon it, if success rewards my efforts, I shall certainly remember
+that you gave me very valuable assistance in the undertaking."
+
+"Then you think I might have a reward, don't you, Mr. Pender?" he said.
+
+"I most positively do, and right now and here I'm willing to promise
+you--"
+
+"Wait a little, Mr. Pender. There's only one thing you could do to pay me
+for the little assistance I have been to you. Some time later on, after
+you get back to Washington, write me a letter on your official paper,
+stating just what aid the Boy Scouts of the Red Fox patrol were to you
+in furthering the ends of justice. That's all any of us could accept,
+sir."
+
+"By Jove! I'm proud to know such boys, and proud to shake hands
+with the fine scout leader at their head!" exclaimed the Government
+representative, as he cordially thrust out his digits.
+
+But "once bit, twice shy"; and Paul shook his head as he caressed his
+fingers.
+
+"Excuse me, won't you, Mr. Pender; but once at a time is enough. I expect
+to have a lot of use for my right hand to-night, sir," he laughed.
+
+"Oh! pardon me, my dear boy!" cried the other, "I was forgetting that it
+wasn't the hand of a tiller of the soil I squeezed. I'll be more careful
+next time. But your news was so unexpected, coming at a moment when I had
+received some depressing information by mail, that I quite forgot myself.
+Please continue to keep these facts to yourself for a little while
+longer, Paul."
+
+"Yes, sir; until you give me leave to speak I won't tell anybody, not
+even my own folks at home. And if we are so fortunate as to get that
+letter from you, Stanhope Troop will have a big advantage over other
+competitors. You know, sir, we are competing for an elegant banner; and
+the other patrols have been working all summer; so that we've just got to
+get busy if we hope to have a show in."
+
+"I don't care if they've been going along a year, I'd be willing to wager
+that Stanhope will win the prize. That shows what faith I put in the
+leader of the Red Fox patrol. Nothing is going to ever hold you back. I
+can see the spirit glowing right now in your eyes," and Mr. Pender nodded
+his head wisely as he said this.
+
+Paul turned red under the praise.
+
+Mr. Pender was apparently anxious to know all he could about the place
+around the abandoned mill.
+
+"Have you seen this party named Solus Smithers?" he asked, presently, as
+they walked slowly on in company.
+
+"Yes, sir; several times. He's a very tall and thin man, with a face I
+never liked. He's driven some of us boys away from the mill pond this
+last summer. We have always fished there, and nobody ever said a word;
+but he acted as if he had an idea some of us would steal his old house.
+He even brought out a gun once, and warned three fellows off. After a
+while no one cared to go up there. Some of the boys even said they
+believed the old man was daffy, and that he might shoot if anybody made
+him real mad."
+
+"Oh! yes; I see; and he didn't want trespassers on his farm, eh? Does the
+mill pond stand on the ground he's rented?" asked the gentleman.
+
+"Oh! yes, and all the ground around there. It must cover four hundred
+acres, but most of it is in woodland, you see, sir," replied Paul,
+promptly.
+
+"Can you tell me what Smithers looks like, Paul?"
+
+"He's very tall, stoops quite a lot, uses snuff like they do down in
+North Carolina, and has small blue eyes and a queer nose. Some of the
+boys say it looks as if it had been broken. That man in the red car knew
+it when Jack called it a hooked nose, sir."
+
+Mr. Pender slapped his thigh as though in great glee.
+
+"Well, this is great luck, sure enough. From your description I believe
+that I know this Mr. Solus Smithers, though that isn't his name at all.
+It keeps on getting better and better, the deeper I grub. And if all
+turns out well, I shall owe you a heavy debt, my dear boy."
+
+"Make it up in that letter then, sir. The stronger the better. And if you
+happen to need any further assistance don't hesitate to call on us. We've
+got some dandy trackers in the Red Fox patrol; and it would have to be a
+pretty smart fellow to pull the wool over their eyes, sir."
+
+"Good for you, Paul," said the gentleman, warmly; "always ready to sound
+the trumpet for your comrades; but if the truth were told I reckon I'd
+find the scout leader at the top of the bunch when it came to a knowledge
+of woodcraft."
+
+"Please don't, sir," pleaded Paul.
+
+"Jack has been confiding to me all about how you've always been deeply
+interested in outdoor life," went on Mr. Pender; "but as you have told
+me all you know about this red car that has gone along the Grapevine
+Road, headed for the old mill pond, I believe I'll have to leave you.
+Take my hand, won't you, Paul? I promise to be good, and not put on
+pressure, though my heart is very warm toward you, lad."
+
+So Mr. Pender hurried away.
+
+Paul turned back. He had noticed an air of unusual excitement inside the
+post-office, and his curiosity was stirred. While Mr. Pender and his
+strange mission was in the foreground, of course, he had been able to pay
+little attention to anything else; but now that this was shelved he could
+not resist the inclination to return, and ask what made the people stand
+around in knots as though exchanging views.
+
+He discovered Ted Slavin and three of his friends jabbering away just
+inside the door, and heard one of them exclaim:
+
+"Course we will go along; it'd be a big feather in our cap, fellers, if
+we'd be the ones to bring him back."
+
+"Yes, send out word for the boys to get together, Ted. We'll show 'em
+what we fellers that has hunted since we was knee high, know about
+follerin' a trail!" another remarked.
+
+"Let up, you; d'ye want to give the whole snap away? See who's here!"
+whispered Ted; but in such a hoarse tone of voice that Paul could not
+help hearing.
+
+Of course his curiosity was still further aroused. Whatever could have
+happened in quiet Stanhope, to cause all this gathering of people, and
+such earnest consultations?
+
+He saw Chief Billings, who was in charge of the police force in the town,
+leaving the post-office, and noted that a large delegation trailed after
+him.
+
+Could it be possible that the local authorities had in some manner become
+aware of the fact that law breakers were abroad in the land? Was Mr.
+Jared Pender, the Government expert, about to have rivals in the field?
+When those cronies of Ted spoke of following a trail could they have had
+any reference to the track of the wonderful red automobile with the
+khaki-colored top; and occupied by the two parties whom Mr. Pender wished
+to catch, as he said, "with the goods on?"
+
+Paul hoped not. It would complicate things very much; and in the
+confusion the rascals might manage to slip away. Paul had known Chief
+Billings to undertake a clever piece of business before now; but never
+succeed in accomplishing one.
+
+Some one banged into him as he turned a corner in the building.
+
+"Why, hello! Paul, that you?" said a voice.
+
+It was Si Growdy, who claimed to be a nephew of old Peleg, but who had
+never been known to be recognized by the crusty old farmer. He clerked
+in one of the general stores, of which Stanhope boasted several big ones,
+where everything, from a package of pins to a coffin could be purchased.
+
+"What's all the row about, Si?" demanded the acting scout master, as he
+seized hold of the clerk, to head him off; for Si seemed to be in a hurry
+as usual; he worked for a man who was a driver, and had to give an
+account of every minute of his time.
+
+"Ain't you heard nawthin' about it, Paul? Where you ben all this
+afternoon?" was the way the clerk answered one question with another.
+
+"Up in the woods with the scouts, doing stunts. But tell me what's gone
+wrong? Another robbery at the jewelry store; or has some one sneaked
+away with one of the coffins your house carries?" pursued Paul.
+
+"If anybody ever got off with a pin that didn't belong to 'em at our
+emporium, the fact ain't never been known. I've seen the boss chargin'
+customers with the cracker they eat when samplin'. We got orders to make
+light weight if they buy. But about this rumpus; they's a child lost!"
+said Si.
+
+"Who's child?" asked Paul, instantly deeply interested.
+
+"Mr. Boggs' little Willie. The Chief was just in to talk with him. He's
+all broken up over it, because you know, he uses a crutch, and can't help
+hunt."
+
+Paul knew Mr. Boggs assisted the post-master in his duties; and many a
+time had Paul chatted with the pretty little chap who played around the
+building while his father was assorting the incoming mails. Willie Boggs
+had always been a universal favorite. He was the sweetest child in all
+Stanhope, and everybody loved him.
+
+Paul was shocked at the news. Still, he hoped it might not be as bad as
+Si said.
+
+"Where did it happen? How do they know? Who saw little Willie last? What
+has been done to find him?" he fired at the clerk like the discharge of
+a Gatling gun.
+
+"Glory! expect me to tell the hull story, with my boss asettin' there
+inside the store, watchin' the clock, an' dockin' me for every minute I'm
+late? All right, who cares? And besides, Paul, p'raps that troop of yours
+might be useful in follerin' the tracks of poor little Willie," Si went
+on.
+
+"Where, when, how?" demanded the scout master, resolutely.
+
+"This mornin' it happened. Willie went with Annie Spooner to get some
+leaf mould in the edge of the woods, for her ma's flowers. She came back
+just at noon an' sed Willie had strayed away in the woods."
+
+"Did anybody go to look for Willie?" asked Paul.
+
+"Three boys went out to bring him in. They hunted high an' low, but he
+wa'n't there. Then a dozen people set out to search the woods. Just now
+they come back to say Willie ain't to be found high nor low. That stirs
+the big chief some. He 'low he knows how the thing's to be did; and so
+he's agoin' to organize a hunt for the lost child. That's all. Now, let
+me get back to my slave tasks, Paul."
+
+"And night coming on," murmured Paul, as he looked out of the door to
+where people were assisting the crippled Mr. Boggs across the square in
+the direction of his nearby home, where his wife was no doubt waiting
+eagerly for some news of the missing darling.
+
+Si Growdy shot out of the door, and headed in the direction of the store
+where he gave his valuable services daily from seven in the morning until
+late in the evening, for a miserable pittance.
+
+Paul walked thoughtfully out of the post-office. He was tired from his
+exertions of the afternoon; but all that was immediately forgotten when
+he mentally pictured the weeping mother in that little cottage where the
+honeysuckle climbed above the door. Then he thought of the terror of the
+little fellow, wandering about in the great woods with night coming down,
+and all sorts of strange noises arising to chill his blood.
+
+"I'll do it!" exclaimed Paul presently; "the chance is too good to be
+lost. Why let Ted and Ward have the inside track? Just as soon as I can
+send word around we'll test our new system of bringing a bunch of the
+Fox scouts together. And then, if the boys are willing, we'll try and
+discover where Willie Boggs has wandered. It's a glorious opportunity to
+find out if what we've learned is worth having. Here goes then, to send
+out the call for help!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV
+
+A CAMP IN THE WOODS
+
+
+"Why, Paul, what's all this hurry mean?"
+
+"I just want to get a few bites of supper, mother, and then rush off.
+I've sent out the call for a hurry meeting of the patrol. Some people
+call it the emergency signal. Every one of the scouts knows what it
+means. Those who can get out will be gathering here inside of half an
+hour."
+
+"But it must be something very unusual that urges you to do this. You've
+been on the go all afternoon, and I don't know that it is wise to bolt
+your supper in such a style, just to be ready to greet the boys when they
+arrive."
+
+"Mother, you don't understand. Father hasn't come back from his afternoon
+round of visits, has he? Then you couldn't possibly know," went on Paul.
+
+"Know--what, my son?" questioned his mother, seeing that the boy was
+worked up more than usual.
+
+"We're going to organize a searching party. Perhaps some of the scouts
+may be smart enough to get on the track. It's poor little Willie Boggs,
+mother."
+
+"Searching party--Willie Boggs! Is the child lost?"
+
+"Yes, and has been ever since before noon, in the big woods. You see it's
+just beginning to get dark now. Think of the poor little fellow wandering
+perhaps miles off in the woods. What if a storm should come up?" and
+Paul's manner told how he felt.
+
+"But there are no wild animals large enough to injure the child. The most
+he could suffer would be exposure to the night air; that and the fright
+of finding himself alone. Oh! it is a terrible thing though; and little
+Willie is all his poor father has left. It would kill him if anything
+happened," declared the good lady, whose heart was very tender.
+
+"Now you see why I'm in such a hurry to get a bite, mother. Every minute
+might count, for perhaps he is wandering further and further away. You'll
+let Jane get me something in a jiffy, won't you, now?" continued the
+eager lad.
+
+"Gladly, and help her too, after you have told me more. How do you boys
+expect to look for the child in the blackness of those woods?"
+
+"Every scout will carry a lantern, with which we have practiced signal
+wig-wagging until we are able to send messages back and forth. Besides
+that, we can form a long line across the woods, and comb nearly every bit
+of it, looking into every stack of brush and waste to see if Willie has
+lain down. And mother, think if we should just find him, how glad you'd
+be that we went out!"
+
+"Indeed, I should! I shall pray that you succeed, my boy. And it does you
+great credit that you are so earnest in your desire to help others. Sit
+down, and I'll wait on you myself," and Mrs. Morrison bustled away toward
+the kitchen as she spoke.
+
+As Paul was hastily devouring his supper, for he was as hungry as a wolf,
+who should come in but the doctor. And of course he had to be told;
+though Paul's mother took this task upon herself, giving the boy a chance
+to eat.
+
+Through the window Paul could see that already several fellows had
+gathered; and other lanterns were meanwhile coming like giant fireflies
+through the gathering gloom of the night.
+
+The prospect of bringing his scout troop into action for such a good
+cause was particularly pleasing to the boy who temporarily filled the
+office of leader. Spurred to do their very best by a recollection of the
+vows they had so recently taken, the members of Stanhope Troop might be
+depended on to bring credit to their organization.
+
+By the time Paul issued from the house there were a full dozen of his
+chums present. He was glad to see that all the original charter members
+forming the Red Fox patrol were on hand. They happened to live closer
+than others who had joined later; and boys of a particular community
+generally flock together.
+
+Immediately a great hubbub ensued. Those who did not know what all the
+fuss was about had to be "put wise," as William said. And Paul was called
+upon to explain his plans for the tracking of little Willie Boggs, who
+had become as a chip on the torrent, a wanderer in that mysterious
+forest, the end of which few Stanhope fellows had ever reached in their
+wanderings up over the hills.
+
+There were now fourteen present, and Paul determined not to wait for any
+more of the troop to come to time.
+
+"Fall in!"
+
+Down the street they marched, the lanterns flickering as they swung to
+and fro.
+
+No wonder people, rushing to the doors as shouts arose, began to ask
+eagerly if the lost child had been recovered.
+
+"It's the Boy Scouts; and they're going out to join the hunt!" some one
+shouted.
+
+"Oh! they're about a mile behind Ted and his crowd!" jeered one fellow
+who must have had leanings toward the Slavin party; he had been detected
+in cheating so often in every game boys played that for months now he
+found himself left severely alone by decent fellows, and it was reported
+had applied for admission to the patrol Ward and Ted were getting up.
+
+Out of the town, and straight to the spot where the lost boy had last
+been seen Paul led his squad. He knew that it would be only a miracle if
+the many feet that had trod the ground over would have left any trace of
+the child's little shoes; but he still had hopes that the training some
+of his scouts possessed would bring more or less success.
+
+The unique sight of all those lanterns on the road had attracted many
+people, so that when they arrived at the spot Paul had in mind, fully
+thirty followed, a number of them boys who came only to make sport of the
+scouts.
+
+"Spread out, fellows," said the scout leader, quietly, "and examine every
+foot of ground. If you find a single impression of Willie's little shoe,
+give the signal, and I'll come; but hold your places every one."
+
+Immediately the scene became an animated one. Lanterns flashed hither
+and thither, swinging close to the ground; while young eyes searched
+diligently for a trace.
+
+In less than five minutes the signal sounded, and Paul hurried over to
+the one who had given the same. Jack was at his elbow, and between them
+they examined the mark, to ascertain in what quarter it pointed.
+
+Then the advance was taken up in that direction.
+
+Again came the thrilling cry that told of a new footprint that had been
+found.
+
+This time it was Wallace Carberry who had made the discovery. He talked
+so intelligently about it that Paul determined to keep him close by.
+Wallace would be a valuable advisor in case he and Jack disagreed at any
+time as to what the signs meant.
+
+So they went on for an hour, finding a footprint now and then to
+encourage them. These came at more frequent intervals when they got far
+enough away to avoid the trampled soil where the crowd had hunted all the
+afternoon.
+
+Those who had followed were now missing. They had seen that the scouts
+meant business, and did not care to wander so far from town. Hence, Paul
+presently found that he and his patrol had the woods almost to
+themselves.
+
+Several times though he had seen other lanterns wandering around, and
+guessed that these were carried by some of the Slavin crowd, also
+diligently combing the woods in the hope of being the lucky ones to
+find the missing boy.
+
+The chief of police and his party had gone off in an altogether different
+direction.
+
+"How long can we keep this up, Paul?" asked Jack, when they had been
+moving on for two hours, with no end in sight.
+
+"Don't know, but we ought to be able to put our best foot forward just
+as long as that little fellow does, don't you think?" replied the other,
+reproachfully.
+
+"Why, of course, and don't think I'm showing the white feather so early
+in the game. I've made up my mind never to go back until he's found. Why,
+we can camp right in the woods if it comes to it. And that would be a
+bully experience for every Fox in the bunch. Think of having to make beds
+out of branches! Ain't I glad some of us brought our camp hatchets
+along."
+
+"And Jack, it would leave us in a good position to take up the hunt again
+in the morning; for you see we'd be right on the ground where the little
+chap passed along. Suppose you call out again. He might hear, and
+answer."
+
+Jack obeyed, and repeated the name of Willie in a loud voice again and
+again. But only the echoes of the great woods answered. If the boy were
+within reach of that cheery hail he must be wrapped in the sleep of
+exhaustion, and unable to reply.
+
+Finally Jack ceased to call, for he was growing very husky.
+
+The search still went on with unabated zeal, each boy trying to vie with
+his mates in the endeavor to make some new discovery. Paul examined every
+faint print of that little foot, desirous of fixing the time it was made.
+Wallace joined him in this, and it was clearly shown that hours must have
+elapsed since the child passed that way.
+
+"Still, he may be within fifty yards of where we are. Let's keep at it as
+long as we can, and only camp when some are too tired to go on," declared
+Paul, greatly disappointed to think that they had thus far been baffled
+by hard luck.
+
+It was astonishing to see how far the little fellow had wandered; but
+fear always lends wings to the feet; and all the while Willie doubtless
+really believed he must be heading toward home.
+
+And Paul noted another fact that somehow gave him new interest in the
+enterprise. By degrees the trail had swung around to the left, as is
+nearly always the case when grown persons are lost; and the principle
+seemed to hold good in the case of even a child.
+
+In itself this was not strange; but Paul knew that if they kept on for
+another hour the chances were they would come upon the old mill pond,
+nestling in the valley. The fact caused him to remember his friend Mr.
+Pender; to once more mentally see that red motor with the khaki-colored
+top; and to picture the two strangers who had asked him so many
+questions.
+
+Was this really an accident, their being drawn out toward the farm of the
+unneighborly Sol Smithers; or might it turn out to be the working of
+destiny?
+
+He was aroused by a call that he had been expecting to hear for some time
+now.
+
+One of the scouts felt forced to admit that he was "all in." They had
+done manly work to keep up the tramp all this time, being but boys at
+best.
+
+It meant that camp must be made, and the balance of the night spent there
+in the woods, waiting for day to come to renew their search.
+
+Poor little Willie was destined then to pass still more hours, surrounded
+by the terrors of the black and unknown forest. But probably by this time
+he must be so exhausted through his unusual exertions that he was dead to
+the world in sleep; so it would not matter very much.
+
+Soon all was bustle as the fourteen lads began to make ready to spend a
+time in open camp. The sound of hatchets made pleasant music, as branches
+were cut, and beds made close to the fire that had been started.
+
+Some of the smaller lads were so utterly exhausted that they just dropped
+to the ground, and went to sleep. Paul and Jack passed around to see that
+these wornout fellows did not lie too near the blaze; and that they were
+fairly comfortable.
+
+In an hour's time it seemed as though every one were taking solid comfort
+after such rude fashion as could be devised. One of the boys had brought
+his camera along, keen to secure novel effects; and without warning he
+set off a flash that gave him a picture of the slumbering heroes on their
+lowly beds, that would be ever afterwards treasured as invaluable.
+
+At the brilliant illumination several sat up, and one even gave a cry of
+alarm, thinking perhaps that lightning had struck a tree close by; but
+with the coming of darkness again they settled back.
+
+But Paul could not sleep. He was only waiting until some of the more
+restless souls quieted down. Then he and Jack, together with Wallace,
+meant to again tackle the job of seeking for further imprints of those
+worn little shoes among the dead leaves, and in the soft soil under the
+giant trees.
+
+Somehow Paul believed that the hunt was bound to carry them to the very
+door of that farmhouse on the mill pond. He was induced to suspect this
+because the last time they had examined the small shoeprints, the mark of
+a much larger foot had appeared beside it; and after mature deliberation
+he and Wallace came to the conclusion that some man, walking through the
+forest, had discovered the trail of the child, _and was following it_!
+
+He looked around him. As near as he could tell every one of the tired
+scouts was slumbering soundly.
+
+So Paul silently arose, touching Jack on the shoulder, who immediately
+gave Wallace Carberry the signal.
+
+The three uttered no word, but moving softly back from the circle of
+firelight, carrying their almost exhausted lanterns, made ready to once
+more start out into the depths of the wood; with the lonely farmhouse now
+rented by the surly Sol Smithers just half a mile further to the north!
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI
+
+WHAT WOODCRAFT TOLD
+
+
+"There it is again, Paul!"
+
+"As sure as you live we're being followed, boys!" and Wallace allowed his
+voice to rise just above a hoarse whisper when he made this energetic
+remark.
+
+The three were crouching in the bushes.
+
+As yet Paul had not caught a glimpse of the object which seemed to
+disturb both of his friends; but he was looking sharply now.
+
+"Why, yes, I do believe you are right, fellows," he said, calmly.
+
+"Well, you take it mighty cool, I must say," declared Jack.
+
+"Because I see no reason to get flurried over such a little thing, boys,"
+was what the leader replied.
+
+"Little thing, when you know Ted Slavin and a bunch of his toadies came
+up here to get all the glory they could out of this business! Don't you
+understand, Paul, that if they thought they could down us, they'd just as
+lief waylay us in the woods, and put an end to all our expectations?"
+
+This was a very unusual way of talking for Wallace, but it only went to
+show how the boy was worked up over the situation, and made nervous by
+the continuous strain.
+
+"But how do you know those moving figures are Ted and Ward, or even any
+of that crowd?" demanded Paul.
+
+The others hesitated, and finally Jack remarked:
+
+"Well, for a fact we don't know; but you remember we saw signs that even
+you declared proved what I'm saying--that some of those fellows have
+wandered as far as this."
+
+"Yes, that's a fact. I'm not apt to forget it. Now, how many figures have
+you seen dodging along back there, just as if they didn't care to be
+seen--yet?"
+
+"How about it, Wallace?" queried Jack, doubtfully.
+
+"Two, anyhow; I'm sure of that," came the hesitating reply.
+
+"Yes, at least two, Paul," the other echoed.
+
+"And we are three. That's one reason why I don't see any reason for
+getting nervous over the discovery," observed the leader, his voice now
+apparently showing a trace of humor that was bubbling up near the
+surface.
+
+"But where there are two there may be more, Paul?" objected Jack.
+
+"Yes, possibly eight or ten more," went on the calm leader.
+
+"Goodness! and you say there is no need of our worrying?" exclaimed
+Wallace.
+
+"Yes, explain what you mean, old fellow. Eight or ten would give us a
+warm time don't you think?" demanded Wallace, gripping Paul's arm
+fiercely.
+
+"Hardly, if they were all sound asleep around a dying campfire, dead to
+the world," quoth Paul, chuckling now.
+
+But the others uttered low but vehement exclamations.
+
+"Don't you see what he means, Wallace?" asked Jack.
+
+"Sure. What a couple of fools you and I were," came the scathing reply.
+
+"We've been followed by two of our own boys. They must have watched us
+crawl out of camp, and not wanting us to have all the fun, here they come
+creeping after us. What shall we do, Paul?" Jack queried in the other's
+ear; for the flitting figures were now very near.
+
+"Open our arms and welcome the recruits. If they're just bound to join
+forces with us, why should we make any kick. I'm glad of it."
+
+Then raising his voice a little, Paul continued:
+
+"Hey! there!"
+
+They could hear the murmur of voices. Evidently the two shadows were
+talking it over, and must have arrived at some quick conclusion, for
+presently same a hail.
+
+"Hello! Paul, Jack!"
+
+"It's Bobolink, for one," muttered Jack, immediately.
+
+"Then it's a sure thing William is tagging along," said Wallace.
+
+"Come on, both of you fellows. No danger!" called Paul, softly.
+
+After that assurance the shadows boldly advanced, and quickly joined the
+three who stood under the spreading oak.
+
+It proved just as Jack and Wallace had predicted, for the newcomers
+turned out to be William and Bobolink. They were chuckling, as though
+considering it a good joke.
+
+"Thought you'd give us the quiet sneak, and gobble all the glory
+yourselves, hey?" said the latter, as they bustled up; "but William and
+myself had it all fixed. We were on to your curves, all right."
+
+"Yes," broke in William, just there; "didn't we see you with your heads
+together a lot, and wasn't we wise to what was in the wind. Bobolink was
+awake, and it was my turn to snooze. He gave me a kick in the seventh rib
+that made me think a comet had dropped on me. But we showed up game. Now,
+what's doing, fellows; and do we get a grab at the scout?"
+
+"If you both feel like trotting around a whole lot more, why you're just
+as welcome as a shower in spring," asserted Paul, promptly.
+
+"I should say, yes," declared Jack; "and if the whole bunch could stand
+the racket we wouldn't have crept away like we did. But most of the poor
+fellows are all in, and dead tired, and we thought it would be a shame to
+invite them to hike some more."
+
+"Did you bring your glim along?" asked Paul.
+
+"Our lanterns? Well, William didn't want to, but I insisted. I knew that
+if we missed you fellows, and lost ourselves in the bush, they'd come in
+mighty fine for company," returned Bobolink.
+
+"Then let's light up. After that we'll spread out, and try to find the
+trail," with which remark Paul set the example.
+
+Presently five lanterns glowed like giant fireflies.
+
+"Think it lies in this direction, Paul?" asked William.
+
+"I'm sure of it. After that man's track came alongside the print of the
+little chap's shoe, there was no more wandering about; but it struck
+straight ahead. That told me the trail was heading for a house," came the
+ready reply.
+
+"A house. Say, is there any other place up here but the old farm
+alongside the mill pond? I don't seem to remember any," remarked
+Bobolink.
+
+"And that's just where I expect we'll bring up sooner or later," observed
+Paul.
+
+"Then why not put for the old place at full speed right away?" suggested
+William, always impetuous.
+
+"To do that we'd have to drop the trail again. And besides, what does
+an hour, or even two of them, matter in the end? Slow but sure is the
+successful scout's motto, boys. Hello I look here, what's this?"
+
+Paul thrust his lantern down close to the ground. Bending over to look,
+the others could see the plain impression of a child's little shoe. It
+was heading due north, just as many similar tracks had been of late.
+
+"Now if you look at this you'll see it's nearly crushed out by the big
+print of a man's foot; while just beyond the child has stepped into the
+impression made by the man. That can mean only one thing; the two were
+going on in company, and for a minute he let go the little one's hand, so
+that first the child was in front, and then behind."
+
+"I guess you're right, Paul. But see here, what does this mean? The small
+track has dropped out altogether," remarked William.
+
+"That is where the big fellow picks the boy up in his arms, and is
+carrying him," said Wallace, before Paul could answer.
+
+"Right you are, that is just what happened. To tell the truth I don't
+know why he didn't do that before. He must have been toting some bundle
+along, and couldn't well carry the boy too. Come back a bit. I want to
+look around," and Paul retraced his steps until he had reached the spot
+where a confusion of tracks met his gaze.
+
+He followed the man's trail a few paces, and found himself under a tree.
+Raising his lantern he carefully examined the bark of the trunk, and
+finding several fresh scratches, pursued his investigations still higher.
+
+One accommodating limb grew rather low. In fact a man could, by reaching
+up his arms, clasp it easily; and that was what Paul believed had been
+done.
+
+"Give me a push, somebody; and then hand up my lantern," he said,
+clasping his arms about the tree as well as he was able.
+
+Ten seconds later William was handing him up the light; after which Paul
+began to ascend slowly, looking about him as though constantly on the
+watch for signs that would tell another had preceded him.
+
+"All right; it's here. I'm coming down, fellows," he soon called out.
+
+Reaching that friendly lower limb he held something in view.
+
+"Take hold of this, Bobolink, and handle it carefully, because we don't
+know what's in the package. It might be dynamite!" he remarked.
+
+"Oh! I hope not!" exclaimed the one in whose arms the bundle reposed; and
+he did not look any too happy at the prospect ahead.
+
+"Don't be silly," said Paul, as he dropped beside them. "But whatever
+it may be, we might as well hide it in a new place. Then if the fellow
+should come back here to get it, he's going to meet with a
+disappointment, that's all."
+
+"But what d'ye think it is?" argued the one who clasped the large package
+in his arms, though with evident reluctance.
+
+"That is none of our business just now. It may be honest enough, and we'd
+get into a peck of trouble if we peeked. So let's just chuck it in some
+hollow stump as we go along, and muffle our trail behind us so he can't
+find where we put it. Later on I think I know some one who will be glad
+to look into what it contains."
+
+"Perhaps I do too," remarked Jack; and the two chums looked at each
+other, with mutual astonishment marked on their faces.
+
+"Oh!" remarked Paul, "are you on, too? Did he tell you the secret?"
+
+"I happened to pick up an envelope he dropped, and wondered whose it was;
+so I went around, asking. He laughed when I came to him, and told me
+a little bit of news that surprised me. But Paul, he asked me not to
+breathe a word, even to you. That was a mean joke, when you knew all
+along," Jack complained.
+
+"Remember the red car on the road, and the two men in it?"
+
+"Oh! did they have anything to do with his coming up here? Yes, now that
+I think of it, you were pretty much excited over that same red car. You
+guessed something then, didn't you, Paul?"
+
+"He had asked me to watch out for a red car with a khaki-colored top,
+that might have two men in it, one of them owning to a glass eye."
+
+"Good gracious!" said Jack; "that tall chap did have a bogus eye, for a
+fact. And when you left me in town you hurried around to the post-office
+to find Mr. Pender, didn't you? I see it all now. He never came home for
+supper, as far as I know. I reckon he must have got a rig of some sort,
+and put out for the mill pond. But what about Solus Smithers--they asked
+after him, you know?"
+
+Paul pointed to the marks on the ground.
+
+"Unless I'm wrong those are his tracks. I noticed that he had big feet at
+the time he came out and ordered us to clear away from the pond, and
+threatened us with his gun. Yes, perhaps he got home to find visitors
+waiting for him," Paul observed, just as though he could read all these
+things from the trail.
+
+"Then we go on, do we?" asked Bobolink, eagerly.
+
+He had been listening to what passed between his two comrades, and while
+it was partly Greek to him, enough of the truth filtered through to give
+him a creepy sensation, as though cold water were being poured down his
+back.
+
+Bobolink was no coward though, and while he shivered it was more through
+a delicious frame of mind over the chance of an adventure than because
+he felt fear.
+
+"Straight on, as long as these lanterns hold out. I see yours has begun
+to flicker already, William. There, it's puffed out; and my own isn't
+near as strong a light as it was."
+
+Paul seemed to be a true prophet, for inside of five minutes the lanterns
+"gave up the ghost," the last to expire being that of Jack.
+
+"What's doing now?" demanded Jack.
+
+"Gather up all the matches in the crowd. Then I'll strike them one by
+one," was Paul's immediate response.
+
+This emergency torch lasted for a little while. Finally the last match
+was gone, and still they were some distance away from the mill pond.
+
+"Listen," said William, suddenly; with a thrill in his voice; "whatever
+do you suppose that is?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII
+
+TED FINDS SOMETHING
+
+
+"Sure it wasn't an owl?" asked Paul, when a full minute had passed away,
+without their hearing a repetition of the sound that had reached the ears
+of his comrade.
+
+"Didn't sound like it. I kind of thought it was somebody calling for
+help!" said Bobolink, quivering with the suspense caused by the
+situation.
+
+They stood in a group, listening eagerly. The night wind stirred the tops
+of the tall forest trees softly, and even this gentle sound boomed on
+their strained nerves like the strokes of a bass drum.
+
+"Oh! there! Didn't you hear it that time?" whispered Bobolink.
+
+"I guess we did," replied Paul; "and you're right in saying it is
+somebody shouting. But all the same I don't feel sure it was a call for
+help. Let's remember, fellows, that Ted and his crowd must be somewhere
+about up here. And you know from past experiences what dodges he's up to
+when he wants to play a trick on anybody."
+
+"Do you mean he'd like to draw us off by shouting that way, while some
+of his fellows went along to the farmhouse, and got the lost boy?" asked
+William.
+
+"That would be just like Ted. He's as full of tricks as an egg is of
+meat," Jack took it upon himself to say at this juncture.
+
+"Well, what are we going to do about it, boys?" asked Wallace.
+
+"I leave it to Paul; whatever he says ought to be good enough for me,"
+replied Wallace.
+
+"And me," came from the others without hesitation.
+
+"Thanks, fellows. I hope that my plan will prove the best after all. But
+don't blame me if I should make a mistake. Let's head for the road, which
+I take it ought to be somewhere over yonder," remarked Paul, pointing
+through the darkness.
+
+"The road, eh? I see, you mean that once we get on that we'll have it
+easy all the way to the pond. That suits me all right. Count William in."
+
+"Yes, seeing that our lanterns are out, and not a match in the crowd, I
+guess the sooner we get our feet planted on the highway, the better for
+our noses. I've barked mine already against a tree, and another dose will
+spoil my classic beauty," grunted Bobolink, rubbing tenderly at the spot
+in question.
+
+"Then come along, the rest of you," said Paul, starting off.
+
+"Seems to me it's getting lighter," announced Wallace, presently.
+
+"Mebbe our eyes are used to it, that's what," Bobolink remarked.
+
+"Mine are closing up right fast, I warn you, fellers," said William; "and
+before long it's going to be a case of the blind leading the blind. That
+branch took me across the face. Hey! ain't that the same old shout?"
+
+"Sounds like it; but much nearer," returned Paul, with a vein of
+uncertainty in his voice, as if he might be commencing to doubt whether
+they were doing the right thing in paying no attention to the calls.
+
+"Oh! I guess I know what it means," remarked Jack; "I've been trying to
+make it out all along. That's sure a different voice. Some of Ted's crowd
+have got separated, and they're just trying to get together again. You've
+heard quail calling, after being flushed and scattered. How, Paul?"
+
+"Perhaps you've struck it, Jack. Anyway, we are on the road here, and had
+better push straight along to the pond first."
+
+"Right enough," uttered Bobolink, as he broke through a cordon of brush,
+and jumped out on the highway, though it might be only an apology for a
+road after all, being scantily used; "and after that experience it's
+going to be something big that drags me into the woods again."
+
+The little group stood there for a minute to recover their wind, which
+had been more or less exhausted in the last desperate push through the
+dark woods.
+
+"Ready to move on, fellows?" demanded Paul, who had apparently not
+changed his mind, and was more than ever bent on covering the last lap
+lying between themselves and the pond.
+
+Jack and Wallace fell in on either side, and the march was begun. Since
+the other pair did not wish to be left behind, they were forced to
+accompany themselves to the movements of the trio.
+
+Thus they walked perhaps a full hundred yards along the winding road,
+with the stars showing overhead, and the black mysterious woods flanking
+them on either side.
+
+The shouts had apparently ceased; at least none had been heard since the
+five lads reached open territory.
+
+Again it was Bobolink who caught a sound of some sort.
+
+"Tell me again I'm hearing owls, will you, fellows? If that ain't a
+gasoline wagon climbing a hill ahead there I'm off my guess," he
+whispered.
+
+"Chug! chug!" came the plain sound, as the air current veered more toward
+the point toward which they were heading.
+
+"I know that hill," Paul observed, as if talking to himself; "it's just
+this side of the mill pond. That means the car is coming this way. The
+two gentlemen are separating themselves from their dear friend, Solus
+Smithers. Why, I wonder? Would Mr. Pender have anything to do with it?"
+
+"Wow! did you see that?" gasped Bobolink, proving that his plaint about
+his eyes closing up could hardly be based on solid ground.
+
+"Somebody struck a match, and it went out! Whoever it is, he's on the
+road just ahead of us, fellows!" whispered Jack.
+
+"Back up into the scrub here. Quick! for perhaps he's got another match!"
+said Paul, following up his words by instant action.
+
+They managed to cower down in the brush, though Bobolink muttered
+something to the effect that he had received another jab in the
+neighborhood of his wretched eyes.
+
+"Look! he's done it, Paul, just as you said he would!" whispered Jack.
+
+"Yes, he's shielding it from the breeze till it gets strong. There--well,
+what d'ye think of that, fellers?" gasped William.
+
+"It's Ted!" muttered Wallace, staring hard at the figure that seemed to
+be huddled up on the road a little distance away.
+
+"What do you suppose the silly goose is doing on his knees?" came from
+Jack.
+
+"He's found something, and he's looking at it. See, now he's managed to
+open it up. Seems to me like a leather bag, boys," Wallace managed to
+wedge in with.
+
+"Just what it is, old cat eyes. A hand bag! Now, however did that thing
+happen to be lying there in the road? Nobody ever comes up here but
+Solus, and he isn't the one to own a bag like that."
+
+"The red car," said Paul, as Jack seemed to hesitate.
+
+"That's it, as sure as you live. Dropped out of the machine; and by
+jinks! the fellers are comin' back to look for it. Never missed it till
+Sol got home!" his chum declared.
+
+All this talk between the five boy scouts was carried on in the lowest of
+whispers. The sound of their voices would not have carried twenty feet;
+and the kneeling Ted was several times that distance away.
+
+Besides, he seemed to be so fascinated by what he had discovered in the
+leather grip that he had eyes and ears for nothing else just then.
+
+"The motor is coming closer!" remarked Wallace, as the sound of the
+engine was borne more distinctly to their ears.
+
+"Sure. She's just at the top of the rise, and now it's down-grade. Reckon
+she'll be here in a minute. Push back further, fellows."
+
+"Look! Ted hears it now! He's jumped up! Seems like he just don't know
+what to do, cut and run with the bag, or wait till the car gets there.
+Hey! watch that, will you?" gasped William.
+
+"He threw the bag as far as he could into the woods!" said Jack.
+
+"That looks like he meant to try and keep it," suggested Jack; "I imagine
+that the leather grip holds something that took Ted's fancy. But all the
+same I reckon it isn't going to be easy sledding for him. Will he run,
+fellows?"
+
+"He's debating that same question now; but it's too late. He waited just
+half a minute too long," Paul remarked, as a sudden flash of dazzling
+light shot around a bend a short distance ahead, and the red car with the
+khaki-colored top came into view, making fairly fast time.
+
+They could dimly see the inmates apparently surveying the road ahead with
+the utmost eagerness, as though anxious to make a discovery. The loss of
+that bag must have rather upset their plans, and given them a jolt.
+
+Every one of the five hidden scouts crouched low, so that their faces
+might not be discovered by that fierce white glow.
+
+Plainly to their ears was borne the shouts of the men in the machine, as
+they discovered the figure of Ted on the road. The Stanhope bully had
+evidently made up his mind that the bag was well worth struggling for,
+and that he must make some sort of a fight to retain possession of it.
+
+Paul could guess what his plan of operations would be. He had seen Ted
+play innocent more than once before, when caught in the act of doing some
+mean thing. And as a rule the fellow could carry out the game fairly
+well.
+
+But he was up against a different proposition now; and these keen-eyed
+men were not apt to be hoodwinked so easily as a parcel of schoolboys.
+
+Ted stood there, looking at the car that was bearing down upon him.
+
+No doubt he had assumed the innocent air of a rustic, and tried to make
+himself appear as stupid as he could. The two men in the red car were no
+longer calling, for they had seen that the boy on the road showed no
+signs of wanting to run.
+
+As they bore down upon the spot the car slowed up, and came to a full
+stop within a few yards of the waiting Ted. Every scout lying in the
+screen of bushes held his breath as he listened to catch what was going
+to follow.
+
+"Say, gimme a ride, mister?"
+
+That was Ted speaking, before either of the men could say the first word.
+Indeed they were too busy clambering out of the car to surround him, and
+cut off any chance of escape, to think of anything else.
+
+Without answering they bore down on Ted, and he found himself confronted
+by two eager faces, while a rough hand clutched his arm.
+
+"He ain't got it, Brad!" exclaimed the shorter of the pair, as though
+disappointed over something.
+
+"Hey, what'd you do with it, son?" demanded the taller traveler, looking
+furiously at Ted, though pretending to speak gently.
+
+"With what, boss? I ain't got nothin' that belongs to you, sure I ain't!"
+whimpered the boy; and Paul came near to chuckling at the way Ted put on
+the agony.
+
+"We lost a leather bag out of the car. I saw it after we turned into this
+here twisting side road just back a piece. We've looked over every foot
+between here and the mill pond, and ain't seen it. I'm going to ask you
+again, son, what did you do with it?"
+
+The man did not threaten, as yet, but there was something deep down in
+his voice that seemed to tell of all sorts of terrible things that might
+happen to the boy unless he came to time, and confessed.
+
+But at any rate Ted was game. His covetous nature had been aroused by
+something he had glimpsed inside of that same bag; and he did not mean to
+give it up unless pushed to the last resort.
+
+"Ain't seen no bag, mister, 'deed an' I ain't," he whimpered; "I got a
+lantern here, an' I was ahuntin' a little boy that was lost from home.
+Lots of other fellers in the woods adoin' that same. But my light give
+out. Then I struck this here road. I'm clean tired out, mister, and I'd
+like to get a ride home, if so be you're goin' my way. A bag, mister?
+Sure I ain't knowin' nawthin' about no bag. Cross my heart if I do. Gimme
+a ride to Stanhope, mister, please!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII
+
+FORCED TO TELL
+
+
+The two men looked at each other.
+
+Apparently they hardly knew whether to believe Ted or not. Paul saw them
+put their heads close together, as though exchanging confidences. Then
+the tall fellow once more whirled on Ted, who had been standing on one
+leg, with a most forlorn look upon his face.
+
+"We both think that you lie, son," said the man who was minus one of his
+optics, as he thrust his face close down to that of Ted, as though he
+would look straight into his heart; but this was something that no one
+else had ever succeeded in doing, and the attempt did not prove very
+successful.
+
+"Tell him who we are, Brad," growled the shorter of the twain, who looked
+angry enough to devour the unfortunate Ted.
+
+So the one called Brad took something out of his coat pocket that made
+a peculiar jingling noise, and held it up before the boy.
+
+"D'ye see them, son? We call 'em bracelets, and they're meant to go on
+the wrists of criminals. D'ye understand now? We're officers of the law,
+and we've just made a grand haul. But some of the evidence has slipped
+away from us. It's in that same bag you picked up on this here road.
+Now, don't you dare deny it again, or we'll take you into town with these
+pretty toys clasped on your wrists. I'm going to give you another chance
+to tell us, son. Where did you put that bag?"
+
+Ted winced and whined. He showed all the signs of injured innocence.
+Surely he must have made up his mind quickly that the contents of the
+bag were well worth taking all sorts of chances for.
+
+"Ain't seen no bag. Sure I'd be on'y too glad to tell you, mister, if I
+had. All I wants to do is to go home. I'm tired, an' nigh sick with all
+this huntin' for that kid," he whimpered.
+
+The man suddenly pounced on him, and despite Ted's struggles and
+entreaties, he seemed to succeed in accomplishing his purpose. At any
+rate the concealed scouts heard a snap; and when Ted reeled back he was
+holding his two hands close together in a suspicious way, and staring at
+something that seemed to be in the nature of a connecting link.
+
+"Now you are in for it," said the tall man, shaking his head
+threateningly as he stood over the prisoner; "we'll have to take you to
+town, and put you in the lockup as an accessory after the fact. D'ye hear
+that, you young fool? And all because you refuse to help honest officers
+of the law in their legitimate business. Why, you may get ten years at
+hard labor, yes, twenty. Better tell all you know, and perhaps we'll let
+you off."
+
+"You can do anything you like to me, mister, but I ain't agoin' to say
+what I don't know. Ain't seen any bag of no kind. Cross my heart if I
+have. I'm willin' to help you hunt for it, even if I am dog tired. Don't
+you believe me, mister? Sure, I wouldn't lie to you. What would I be
+wantin' with a bag; we got plenty at my house. Ted Slavin's my name, and
+I live in Stanhope. Gimme a ride, mister, if you're goin' that way, won't
+you?"
+
+Again the two men talked together, while Ted watched them out of the
+corner of his eye. He might even have tried to run but the fact that
+his hands were fastened together with that steel chain prevented such
+a thing.
+
+Once more they turned upon him, and the tall man pointing down,
+thundered:
+
+"You've been kneeling in the dirt!"
+
+Ted glanced down at his trousers involuntarily; but even then he was not
+taken off his guard.
+
+"I fell ever so many times after my lantern went out. See here, mister,
+how I scraped the skin off my hand. That's the honest truth I'm givin'
+you!" he cried.
+
+Undoubtedly it was, but all the same the men showed no signs of yielding.
+
+The taller one, called Brad by his companion, deliberately detached one
+of the lamps from the car. With this he bent down to examine the road.
+
+"He'll see the marks of the bag!" whispered Bobolink to Paul.
+
+"Watch him while I scurry along the road a bit, to see if he left it,"
+was what the man said, and then moved down toward the spot where the
+five boys lay in hiding.
+
+When he came opposite them they hardly dared to breathe, lest his keen
+ears catch the sound, and he pounce upon them.
+
+But he went past, scouring the road closely, and looking for some sign of
+the missing bag. They saw him pass on, and the light grew dim. Meanwhile
+Ted sat down on a log, and seemed to be very dejected and forlorn. Once
+or twice when the shorter man was not looking Paul saw him glance around,
+as though sizing up the chances for a sudden plunge into the forest.
+
+"He's coming again," said Bobolink; and the brilliant glow from down the
+road bore evidence of the truth of this remark which was whispered in
+Paul's ear.
+
+Brad walked hastily back, and soon rejoined his companion, with whom he
+talked earnestly for a minute.
+
+"Get up!" he said, turning to Ted, and giving the boy a kick that made
+him climb to his feet hurriedly, groaning with pain.
+
+"Bring him along into the woods, Wash!" the tall man continued, turning
+aside.
+
+"Oh! what are you goin' to do?" cried Ted, in real or pretended terror,
+as he caught hold of the man's coat, and sought to hold him back.
+
+"You'll find out right soon, son. Before we're done with you perhaps
+you'll wish you'd told us about that ere bag us the beginning. We're just
+going to make it warm for a feller of your size. This night air has made
+you too cold to speak up; but we'll fix all that, I reckon; we know how
+to do it, don't we, Wash?"
+
+"Do we? Well, I should smile we did. But they's no need of our goin' far,
+old man. This here is a right smart tree, and looks like it might answer.
+'Sides, they seems to be lots o' loose wood lyin' 'bout this part!"
+
+Paul felt a chill pass over him. Could it be possible these rascals meant
+to torture Ted until he told; or were they just trying to frighten him?
+If it came to the worst they just could not stand by and see such a thing
+done.
+
+Ted, of course, was considerably worked up when he heard what the shorter
+fellow said. It was so very plain he could not mistake the meaning.
+
+"Say, mister, you wouldn't go to hurt a poor feller what never done you
+no harm, now, would you? Wish I on'y knowed where I could find a bag; I'd
+get it for you like hot cakes. Please don't smoke me. I ain't a ham,
+mister, an' I never done you any harm. Let me go, won't you? I'll never
+come up here again, sure I won't. And I'll promise to bring you all the
+bags in our house, mister."
+
+Paying no attention to his pleadings and his groanings the men stood Ted
+up against a tree. Then the rope brought from the car was wrapped around
+both boy and tree several times.
+
+"Get busy, Wash, and scrape up all the dead leaves you can find. Then
+begin and pile up some brush and stuff. Oh! yes, it's a cold night, but
+we ain't agoin' to let a poor critter what's lost his way, suffer. Here
+you, stop that snifflin'. Time enough to beller after it begins to hurt."
+
+He struck Ted again in the face, making his nose bleed. Paul had crept
+out from the brush and commenced to approach the spot. He knew that the
+other four scouts were probably close on his heels.
+
+Every boy's heart beat like a trip hammer with excitement. They bit their
+lower lips to keep from shouting out loud, such was the strain upon them.
+But not one had the least thought of turning back. With such a leader,
+how could they?
+
+The shorter ruffian was scratching right merrily among the dead leaves,
+making all the noise he could, so as to impress the prisoner with a sense
+of his perilous condition. While he worked he kept talking, half to
+himself, and no doubt uttering all sorts of terrible threats calculated
+further to alarm the boy.
+
+"We forgot one thing, Wash," said the other man, suddenly.
+
+"What was that?" asked the one on his knees.
+
+"To search the varmint. I might as well do it right now, while you go on
+getting his jacket warmer ready."
+
+At first Ted tried to make all the resistance possible; but this only
+brought quick punishment in the shape of ugly blows and threats. So Ted
+had to stand and allow the other to have his way.
+
+A minute later the man uttered a loud cry.
+
+"Look here, Wash, what did I say?"
+
+He was holding something up. Seen in the light from the lamp belonging
+to the red car it looked very much like a fat wad of greenbacks, tied
+together with a cord.
+
+Wash sprang up, and bent over to examine the object in the light. Then he
+laughed harshly.
+
+"It's the boodle, all right, Brad. He found the bag, sure as thunder! And
+now he's _got_ to tell, or it's all up with him!"
+
+Both men turned furiously on the bound boy. Ted had held out against all
+odds up to this critical point; but of course he must admit himself
+beaten, now that they had found the evidence in his pocket.
+
+Nearer crept Paul, with his chums tagging close at his heels. And nobody
+thought to look beyond the line of brilliant light cast by the lamp which
+rested on the ground at the foot of the tree. Fortunately its powerful
+rays were directed away from the quarter occupied by the creeping Boy
+Scouts.
+
+"Now, I reckon you're agoin' to tell all you know about that ere bag,
+son?" said Brad, in a terrible voice.
+
+"I guess I'll have to, mister. I was just holdin' out to see if so be you
+was what you says. Now I know you be, and I'm ready to tell the hull
+thing if you'll only let me go free. I don't want to be smoked, just yet
+anyway," Ted whined.
+
+"You did find the bag, then?" demanded the other.
+
+"Yep, that's what I did."
+
+"And took this wad of dough out of it?" pursued the other, savagely.
+
+"It looked too nice to throw away, so I cabbaged it, mister. Wisht I
+hadn't now."
+
+"What became of the bag after you took this out--go on, now, and tell,
+or--"
+
+"Oh! I throwed that away, mister, right over here in the woods somewhere.
+If you look around you'll find her close by. Please let me go when you
+dig her out!" said Ted, really alarmed now for his safety.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX
+
+THE CAPTURE
+
+
+Paul knew where that bag was.
+
+By the strangest chance in the world he was kneeling alongside it just
+then. In creeping forward so as to draw closer to the scene of action,
+and avoid the rays of light cast by the car lamp, he had happened to put
+his hand on some object that felt soft to the touch; and he guessed what
+it must be.
+
+What if the tall man came straight toward that spot, looking for the
+missing object? Dared they rise up and defy these two scoundrels? If some
+one cast Ted loose would he join forces with them, and make common cause
+against the ruffians?
+
+Judging from what he knew about the fellow, from past experiences, Paul
+thought no dependence could be placed on Ted. As likely as not if his
+hands were free, he would seize the very first chance to snatch up the
+bag and scamper off, leaving the others to bear the brunt of the men's
+anger.
+
+But perhaps they would not have to face the tall chap just yet. He seemed
+ready to start into the bushes across the way first, taking the lamp with
+him.
+
+"Keep on piling up the trash, Wash. Get him surrounded good and plenty.
+For if we don't run across that bag mighty soon we're bound to make it
+warm for this Smart Aleck. But don't put a match to the heap till I get
+back. I wanter see the fun, you understand."
+
+"Oh! mister, it's just like I was tellin' you. I stood in the road and
+guv the bag a throw when I see your light over the top of the hill. She
+jest _must_ be close around here somewhere," Ted wailed.
+
+"If Brad finds her, all well an' good; but if he don't--well, you'll have
+a sweet time soon, that's all," growled the shorter man, still on his
+knees, and engaged in scraping more leaves together.
+
+"If you on'y would let me, I'd stand on the road jest where I was when
+I throwed the old bag. Then you could figger where she landed. Let me
+loose, won't you, mister? I told you the truth this time; and you're sure
+to find that bag. They'll be wonderin' what's become of me at home, sure
+they will. I got a mother, and she thinks a heap of me, she does. You
+wouldn't break her heart, mister, by smokin' a poor boy?"
+
+"Aw! dry up! you fooled us once, but you can't do it no more. It's the
+bag, or your hide gets a singein', my fine feller. That'll do for you,
+now."
+
+The man had a temper as short as his stature; and Ted dared not stir him
+up any further. So he hung there alongside the tree, watching the glow
+of the lamp further up the road.
+
+And as he stood in this disconsolate position, he suddenly became aware
+that something was taking place just beyond the kneeling Wash.
+
+Perhaps, had his hands not been so snugly fastened together with that
+horrid steel chain, Ted might have tried to rub his eyes, under the
+impression that they were deceiving him; for he saw a face in the dim
+light, a face that looked wonderfully like that of Paul Morrison.
+
+Some foolish boys would have been so thrilled by the prospect of relief
+that they must have called out, and thus betrayed the creeping rescuers.
+Ted chanced to be built on different lines. He stared and blinked, but
+gave utterance to no sound.
+
+He saw other moving figures close on the heels of the leader. Then he
+understood that Paul was not alone, but some of his Red Fox patrol must
+be in attendance.
+
+Closer still crept the newcomers. If Ted's heart ever warmed toward a
+living being it surely ought just then; when these lads, whom he was
+wont to regard as his bitter rivals, and enemies in everything at school,
+took such chances simply because they could not see a Stanhope boy in
+trouble.
+
+Wash kept muttering to himself as he worked. The rustle of the leaves,
+and the crackling of the brush as he dragged it forward, kept him from
+hearing such sounds as might have been made by the tenderfeet scouts, who
+had not yet learned just how to do these things as might an Indian or an
+experienced woodsman.
+
+Paul was on his knees now, and still rising, with Jack a close second.
+
+They were not three feet behind the man who labored. A single plunge
+forward must send them full upon his back.
+
+Some thought of his companion possibly crossed the mind of Wash just
+then; for he suddenly turned his head.
+
+Of course he could not help but see what was behind him.
+
+"Now!" whooped Bobolink and William in a breath.
+
+There was a simultaneous movement on the part of the five lads. Wash,
+taken by surprise, could not get up on his feet. He had his hands full of
+brush at the moment, and this also handicapped him about making any
+effective use of the weapons Nature gave him.
+
+He had just time to shout the name of his companion when the avalanche
+struck him, and he was bowled over as neatly as ever a football tackle
+got his man.
+
+Paul knew that they could easily manage this one fellow. The trouble
+was Wash did not happen to be alone. When the tall ruffian came dashing
+quickly to the spot there was no telling what he might not do.
+
+"Hold him down, you twins. Don't let him break loose. The rest of you
+follow me!"
+
+Even while speaking Paul scrambled to his feet. He heard the mad patter
+of feet as Brad came dashing toward the spot, shouting in his excitement,
+and doubtless believing that the prisoner had turned upon his captor.
+
+"Let me loose, Paul; quick, twist this rope around the tree!" shrilled
+Ted, who saw a chance to escape the punishment that had been hovering
+over his head.
+
+Paul caught the end of the rope. Four times did he dash around that tree,
+in about as many seconds; then Ted, finding his bonds loose, squirmed
+free.
+
+But Brad was now on hand, filled with astonishment and fury. Whichever
+way he turned the rays of his car lamp he seemed to discover fresh moving
+figures. The woods seemed to be full of enemies. They must be hiding
+behind each and every tree, ready to pounce upon him.
+
+Already he could see that his partner was writhing on the ground, held
+down by an unknown number of strangers. In his eyes it might be these
+advancing figures each and every one must be a deputy sheriff, eager to
+have a hand in his arrest. So terror makes cowards of the best of men;
+and Brad turned to flee.
+
+"Surrender!" shouted a voice behind him.
+
+It was Paul calling out, but just then the alarmed culprit could not tell
+the voice of a boy from that of a hyena. Some one had called upon him to
+surrender, and the dread word conjured up all sorts of terrible
+conditions.
+
+Into the darkness of the woods he would have plunged, regardless of the
+shock that must follow a collision with an unseen tree. But he did not
+go far. A figure arose straight in his path, and opened a pair of arms,
+into the embrace of which the fleeing rascal ran.
+
+Before the lamp fell to the ground and went out Paul had one glimpse of
+a face.
+
+"It's Mr. Pender, fellows! Brad's nabbed!" he could not help shouting.
+
+Jack, realizing the need of more light, instantly flew over to where the
+car was standing, and detached the second lamp. With this he hastened
+back. Wash was still struggling; but the two boys had him on his face,
+where his superior strength was of little avail; and were sitting on him
+to keep him quiet.
+
+When they rushed over to where Mr. Pender had been seen struggling with
+the taller of the ruffians, they found that he had subdued Brad; for the
+other was glaring down at a pair of steel bracelets which outshone those
+he had so pleasantly snapped on the wrists of poor Ted.
+
+There was no more fight in him.
+
+When the other man had been treated to a similar present, they were
+allowed to sit upon the ground and exchange words of doleful regret,
+while Mr. Pender went the rounds, and gravely shook hands with each one
+of the Boy Scouts.
+
+"You've done me a good turn, boys, a mighty good turn. I was just on my
+way to the mill pond to arrest these chaps when I saw a light ahead, and
+creeping up, witnessed this interesting sight. When I've found that bag
+now, I imagine I'll have the case against these two worthies clean cut,"
+he said.
+
+Upon which Paul quietly stepped over into the bushes and fished out the
+article in question, which he delivered to the officer.
+
+From Brad's pocket was taken the wad of bills which Ted had thought to
+purloin from the bag before he threw it and the rest of its contents
+away.
+
+"This is counterfeit money, boys, made from the plates in the bag. They
+were taking these things to Solus, who had written them that he had
+secured a nice quiet retreat where they might work undisturbed. So you
+see, my boy," said Mr. Pender to Ted, "if you had made way with this
+it must have gotten you into a peck of trouble from the start. You're
+lucky to get out of it as easy as you do."
+
+Ted was looking anything but cheerful.
+
+"Oh! I knowed it was bad money all the while, sir, but I wanted to take
+it to the chief of police in town. I ain't ever goin' to run up against
+Paul Morrison and his crowd no more, after this white way they treated
+me. Not much. I'm goin' to turn over a new leaf after this. But please,
+mister, get that key from him, and take these things off. Makes me squirm
+to just feel 'em. But, mister, I'm glad I didn't have to smoke, after
+all," and that seemed to be the burden of Ted's thanksgiving.
+
+As to his ever turning over that promised new leaf, well, Paul believed
+they were more apt to find potatoes growing on apple trees than that
+such a wonder should come about.
+
+"But I'm not satisfied yet, boys," said the Government agent; "there's a
+third one to get; Solus Smithers, who is known to me by another name.
+Now, I wonder if I could leave these two prisoners in charge of several
+of you, while the rest went with me in the car? I'll make use of the
+rope, so they just can't possibly get away."
+
+It was presently decided that William, Wallace and Bobolink should stay,
+also Ted if he cared to remain. Paul and Jack would accompany Mr. Pender,
+so as to render any assistance needed. They could also bring back little
+Willie Boggs, should he be found under the roof of the old farmhouse by
+the mill pond.
+
+"The worst of it is I don't know how to handle a machine," remarked the
+gentleman, after they had stepped out on to the road.
+
+"Both of us do, sir," remarked Paul; "so if you will jump aboard we'll
+soon be off."
+
+"Well, I'd just like to learn if there is anything you Boy Scouts don't
+know how to handle?" observed the pleased agent, as he saw the two lamps
+put back in position, though only one was allowed to remain lighted.
+
+It took them but a short time to draw close to the farmhouse by the pond.
+
+Mr. Pender jumped out and advanced through the darkness toward the door.
+Just as he reached it the boys, looking, saw it open. Then the voice of
+Sol Smithers came plainly to them.
+
+"Wall, did yuh run acrost the bag, Brad? I guessed 'twas on'y layin' down
+the road a piece. But what yuh mean apushin' in on me thetaways?"
+
+"You're my prisoner, Silas Westover. Don't try to run, or it will be the
+worse for you. I have plenty of help and your place is surrounded. Wash
+and Brad are already in irons. Hold up your hands!" came in the stern
+voice of Mr. Pender.
+
+Of course the man who had called himself Solus Smithers did not offer any
+resistance, and he was quickly made a prisoner. When he found later that
+one man, assisted by a parcel of Boy Scouts, had captured three desperate
+characters, he was about as mad as a hornet; but it was too late then
+to remedy matters.
+
+Paul and Jack immediately started a search for the missing Willie Boggs.
+The youngster was discovered fast asleep on a cot, just as the man who
+had found him in the woods had lain him down.
+
+And when Mr. Pender saw this he nodded his head, and declared that
+because Solus had shown that he possessed a tender heart, for all his
+assumed fierceness, he would make it as easy for him when the case to
+trial, as he could.
+
+After Mr. Pender had searched the place, and accumulated what evidence
+he needed, all of them got into the car, Willie still sound asleep. Then
+they started over the road for Stanhope.
+
+The town was reached at just one o'clock. At police headquarters Mr.
+Pender delivered his three prisoners for safe keeping. After that Paul
+again took the red car out to bring in the remainder of the patrol, for
+they were miles away from home.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX
+
+FOUND OUT AT LAST
+
+
+"Why, hello! Paul! I didn't hear you ring. Did you fly in through the
+window?"
+
+Jack sprang up from the easy chair he had been occupying in the library
+of his own home, when his chum suddenly appeared before him.
+
+It was about ten o'clock on the morning following the hunt for the lost
+boy; and the remarkable occurrences that had accompanied it up in the
+woods above Stanhope.
+
+"Oh! you know I told you I might slip in by the back door this time; and
+that is just what I did," replied Paul, speaking in an unusually guarded
+tone.
+
+"That's a fact!" exclaimed Jack, beginning to show signs of excitement;
+"and I remember that at the same time you promised--"
+
+"I'd try my best to solve the puzzle about those disappearing old coins,
+and tell you to-day," said his chum, breaking in. "Well, perhaps I may,
+though my most promising clue has turned out a bit of a fizzle."
+
+"But you have another up your sleeve, you said?" continued Jack, eagerly.
+
+"Yes, I believe I have," Paul admitted. "Some time later, when we get
+this queer affair off our hands, I want to talk with you about a lot of
+things connected with this scout movement. I got some good ideas from a
+bunch of papers left at our house for me. Guess who remembered us in
+such a bully way?"
+
+"Give it up. I might mention every gentleman in town, and then some,"
+laughed Jack; "for they're all watching what we're doing, with interest.
+But go on and tell me who it was, Paul."
+
+"Mr. Peleg Growdy," came the surprising answer.
+
+"Well, you don't say?" exclaimed his chum, delight showing in his voice;
+"so the old man has really seen a great light, has he? I guess he's
+taking more interest in our troop than anybody else in town. That night's
+work was the best thing that ever happened for the boys of Stanhope, as
+well as for Peleg. I take off my cap to him after this, Paul."
+
+"But wait; that isn't all. You know that Si Growdy is a nephew of his?
+Well, he's without a home no longer. Peleg sent for him, and they had a
+long talk. Si told me this morning that he's really been adopted by his
+uncle, and is going to make his home with him. What d'ye think of that,
+Jack?"
+
+"Just immense, that's what," declared his companion, slapping a hand on
+Paul's shoulder; "I'm glad we went there and cleaned up the old man's
+dooryard. Some of the boys thought it silly at the time; but they
+understand things better now. He was just needing something like that to
+touch his heart. Up to then he thought all boys were pests. We opened his
+eyes some, eh?"
+
+"That's right, we did. But about those coins!" said Paul, smiling once
+more.
+
+"Yes, first tell me who it was you suspected that has turned out
+innocent?" asked his chum.
+
+"There he lies yonder, sleeping, with one eye open and watching us!"
+remarked Paul, pointing across the room.
+
+"What! Carlo! You actually suspected him of taking my coins? Why, Paul,
+whatever put that notion into your head?" demanded Jack, in sheer
+astonishment.
+
+"Well," returned Paul; "perhaps it was silly, but then you've taught him
+to fetch a basket from the baker's, and do lots of stunts. I didn't know
+but what the sly old chap might be helping himself to your coins, and
+palming them off on the butcher for a supply of bones."
+
+"That would have been the limit!" gasped his friend. "But you found out
+that he was innocent, did you?"
+
+"I finally went in and talked with Mr. Griggs; but he said Carlo just
+came in once in a while, looking so pitifully at him, that he didn't have
+the heart to refuse a bone. So none of your lost coins have gone into his
+till, Jack."
+
+"Oh! that would have been the queerest thing ever, had he done it. But
+now about the other clue you have--tell me about it, Paul," continued
+the anxious one. Paul had seated himself where he could keep an eye down
+the street in front of the house. And while his chum was talking he had
+smiled as if he might have discovered something out there that pleased
+him very much.
+
+"Come right up to your den with me, Jack, and leave Carlo shut in here,"
+he said, rising; "and when we get upstairs open the window to air the
+room. Then I shall ask you to let me hide there behind something, while
+you go downstairs, pass out, and along the street in plain view."
+
+"Say, that's a mighty queer thing to do," ventured the other.
+
+"It's all a part of my plan. You must leave the door of the den open too.
+And Jack, after you get around the corner I want you to sneak back to the
+rear of the house, and come up again, crawling into the den here, if
+everything is quiet."
+
+"Oh! all right, if you say so, Paul," Jack observed; "but you've sure got
+me guessing to beat the band, right now. Here's the window open. Now
+shall I get busy, and meander off?"
+
+"Right away. Please carry it out just as I said. You ought to be back
+here inside of six or seven minutes; and I guess that will be time enough
+before the circus begins, Jack."
+
+So the owner of the little den at the top of the house gave his chum one
+last look of bewilderment, and turning, hastened down the stairs.
+
+Paul, with a glance around, chose a certain corner for his hiding-place.
+Here he could see without exposing himself to view; and squatting down he
+prepared to await developments.
+
+A minute later he got up, and moved an old screen partly across the
+floor, so that it hid the open door. When Jack returned, he could crawl
+alongside the hiding boy without showing himself to any one in the room,
+or beyond the window.
+
+Hardly had five minutes crept by when Paul heard a slight sound. It came
+from the stairs, and he smiled, knowing that his chum had lost no time in
+carrying out his part of the plot.
+
+So Jack came sliding in, and was soon nestling down at Paul's side,
+brimming over with curiosity, yet deterred from asking questions by the
+fact that Paul had put up a warning finger.
+
+Several more minutes passed by, when Jack was thrilled to see something
+moving in the direction of the partly open window. It seemed to be a
+long cane fishing rod, that had a dark colored lump at the end of it.
+
+The rod continued to advance slowly into the den. It was, of course, in
+the hands of some one perched in the window of the attic belonging to the
+empty house so close by; and Jack could easily guess now who that person
+must be.
+
+Scissors Dempsey, once his friend, but latterly a crony of Ted Slavin!
+
+Now the end of the rod seemed to hover above the little box containing
+all that were left of Jack's old coins. And even as he and Paul looked
+they saw it descend until the light box was tilted partly over, when the
+point of the long rod was pushed into it vigorously. Jack was reminded
+somewhat of a human hand groping about. And then, as the fishing pole was
+rapidly withdrawn, he saw one of his few remaining old coins sticking to
+the black lump at its terminus!
+
+The game was now clear. Scissors, inspired by a love of fun, or a desire
+to mystify Jack, perhaps make him suspect that one of his chums was
+taking the coins, had come every day into this empty house belonging to
+his father. Whenever he found the window in Jack's den open he amused
+himself with this strange fishing.
+
+Paul beckoned to his chum, and then silently crept out of the den, which
+he was easily enabled to do, thanks to the screen he had placed to cover
+the open door.
+
+Once down on the next landing Jack clutched his sleeve.
+
+"Well, would you dream of such a thing as that?" exclaimed the latter,
+nearly ready to explode with laughter, yet feeling a bit angry at the
+same time. "What under the sun d'ye suppose he's doing such a stunt for,
+Paul?"
+
+"We'd better put it up to Scissors," replied the other, quickly.
+
+"Then you suggest waiting for him as he comes out, and telling him we
+know all about his fishing for my coins?" asked Jack.
+
+"Come along. He might be satisfied with just one to-day. You see it's
+getting harder, with so few left in the box," and Paul led the way
+downstairs again.
+
+"But what's he got on the end of that pole?" demanded his chum.
+
+"I think it must be a lump of rather soft tar, or pitch," came Paul's
+answer, readily enough. "I found a little on one of the coins left the
+last time we examined them; and you said that the fourth stuck to the
+side of the box. Yes, that's what it is. Now, let's wait over by the
+front door, for that's the way he goes in."
+
+Five minutes later the front door of the empty house opened, and a tall
+boy, with spindly legs, came slily out. He stopped to turn a key in the
+lock. Then, as he wheeled, it was to find himself facing two fellows who
+were probably the very last boys in Stanhope he expected to see.
+
+"Just in time to explain how you came to think of that clever little
+fishing dodge of yours, Scissors," remarked Paul; "and to give back all
+those old coins you've been raking in so smartly. Thought it lots of fun,
+didn't you? And meant to twist my chum up so he'd think one of his own
+crowd had been taking them?"
+
+"Yes," Jack said, in turn, looking as angry as he could; "and if you
+don't turn every blessed copper piece over to me right away, there's
+going to be trouble at your house, understand that, Scissors?"
+
+The guilty one turned red in the face. Then he laughed as though he
+wanted to consider it a joke.
+
+"Oh! come off!" he exclaimed, with a gesture of disgust; "can't you take
+a little fun, Jack? Of course I meant to give 'em all back again, after
+I'd had my sport out of the game, and got the last coin. They're upstairs
+here, right now. Come along in, and I'll show you. The slick trick is
+gone up in smoke now, anyway; since you got on to my curves. But I
+wouldn't make such a big fuss over nothing."
+
+"It wasn't the coins, because they don't count for much; but just think
+how I felt at even suspecting that some fellow who was my friend had been
+taking them," said Jack, as he and Paul followed Scissors into the empty
+house.
+
+And from the sneer on the other's face as he looked back, Paul was
+inclined to believe that this was just what he had been doing the thing
+for. He disliked Jack as much now as he had once cared for him; and would
+probably enjoy nothing better than to see him turn on some friend,
+perhaps even his best chum.
+
+The coins were found, as he had said, in a marble-bag in the attic. While
+Jack was counting them, Paul knelt at the window, and experimented with
+the long fishing rod he found on the floor. He discovered that he could
+manage to tilt the little box on the table quite easily, though it needed
+some labor before he brought one of the coins across the open space,
+glued to the pitch at the point of the rod.
+
+"All there, ain't they?" demanded Scissors.
+
+"Yes," replied Jack; "though so sticky I'll have to wash them in
+something like benzine. Perhaps you did do it for a lark, Scissors; but
+I'll make sure that a screen is in that window whenever it's open after
+this."
+
+"Huh! I guess the feller that invented this racket could get up somethin'
+just as good if he wanted," and that was all Scissors ever said about
+it to the boy he had wronged.
+
+Jack, having recovered his property, did not care to do anything further
+about the robbery. Later on Scissors himself told his cronies, thinking
+it to his credit; and they more than a few times tried to joke Jack about
+his disappearing coins. But he took it all in good humor, and after a
+while the thing was apparently forgotten, because the boys of Stanhope
+had many other things of importance to engage their undivided attention.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI
+
+WELL DONE STANHOPE TROOP!--CONCLUSION
+
+
+Days and weeks passed.
+
+In season and out, the boys of industrious Stanhope Troop worked. Never
+had the good people known such a wave of enthusiasm to sweep over the
+town on the Bushkill. It seemed as catching as the measles, this spirit
+of energy, and a desire to do things worth while, which had taken
+possession of most of the boys.
+
+Parents got together, and conferring, admitted that this new fad was by
+all odds the best thing that had ever happened. They determined to
+encourage it to the limit. Even those who were doubtful at the start,
+found themselves obliged to admit that never before had Stanhope
+presented such a clean appearance; and not within the recollection
+of the oldest inhabitant had boys been so obliging.
+
+After the Stanhope Troop had been fully received into the National
+organization an efficient scout master was finally secured in the person
+of a young man by the name of Alec Gordon. He had lately come from
+visiting across the water, where he had enjoyed the personal acquaintance
+of several leading lights in the scout movement in England. Besides that,
+he was naturally fond of the woods, and best of all, filled with a deep
+love for the boy of to-day.
+
+Under his guidance the troop prospered, and made rapid progress along the
+lines started by Paul. The only trouble about the whole matter was that
+Mr. Gordon, being a traveling man, was liable to be called away just when
+his presence might be most needed.
+
+Several times this had occurred, and feeling the need of leaving a deputy
+to fill his place, he put it up to the boys themselves. Of course there
+had not been a dissenting vote; and Paul was elected to play the part of
+guide, should an emergency arise; and in this way he became assistant
+scout master of the troop.
+
+They need have no fear concerning his ability to fill the role. He
+had proven equal to the task before now; and there were not a few,
+particularly among those acknowledging the magical Red Fox as their
+totem, who secretly cherished a belief that Paul knew more about the
+secrets of Nature than any _two_ mature scout masters.
+
+Every chance that offered the scouts were abroad, as busy as bees in the
+honey season; only instead of laying up sweets these energetic chaps
+sought new information. They followed the trails of fox, 'coon and
+rabbit; they watched the habits of the noisy crows holding a caucus in
+the woods; they kept company with the red squirrel and the frolicsome
+chipmunk as they stored away the chestnuts and juicy hickories for their
+winter's supply of food.
+
+And on every occasion they labored to make themselves perfect in those
+branches of wood lore, and the knowledge of useful things, which they
+expected would play a prominent part in the approaching competition.
+
+Just as Paul and Wallace had predicted, it was found that nearly every
+fellow had a love for Nature and her wonderful secrets somewhere in his
+system; even though with a few this breath had to be fanned vigorously in
+order to keep it alive.
+
+Of course they were annoyed again and again by Ted Slavin and his envious
+followers; for the bully of the town had drifted back to his old ways, as
+might have been expected.
+
+When peaceful tactics failed to stop these malicious tricks, the scout
+master personally appealed to the authorities, and a warning was issued
+that, for a time at least, dismayed the disturbers of the meetings. But
+when they could do so in secret, they never lost an opportunity to play
+some sly trick.
+
+Another thing that had been anticipated came to pass. This was the utter
+failure of Ward's cronies to maintain any interest in the duties of
+scouts. Those twelve cardinal virtues that must at all times be held up
+before the fellow who expects to become and remain a Boy Scout in good
+standing, failed to appeal to these rough and ready chaps. It would
+indeed require a revolution in boy nature to make Ted Slavin, or his
+crony, Scissors, trustworthy, loyal, helpful to others, friendly,
+courteous, kind, obedient to his superior officers, cheerful, thrifty,
+brave, clean and reverent!
+
+Just a few days before Thanksgiving the scout master came to Paul with
+the distressing news that he had received an imperative summons from his
+firm to go out on the road; so that it would debar him from being present
+when the long-looked-for-competition took place.
+
+"But," said Mr. Gordon, as he shook Paul by the hand earnestly; "I firmly
+believe that you will be able to fill my place so well that my absence
+will not make the slightest difference," and Paul, of course, simply said
+he would do his best.
+
+The fellows of Stanhope Troop knew full well what that "best" meant.
+
+But as the boys of Manchester Troop and that of Aldine as well, learned
+through some of their energetic scouts, what a strong bid these patrols
+of the Fox were going to make, in the hope of winning that coveted
+banner, they seemed to be stirred to make new endeavors.
+
+Paul managed to keep advised of pretty much all that was going on; since
+this was a part of a scout's duty; though no mean advantage was ever
+taken of the rival camps--he would not stand for that. In a quiet way he
+had learned how their meetings became more frequent, and the desire to
+excel, that had threatened to dwindle away for lack of rivalry, grew more
+keen.
+
+Paul was glad of it. Competition is the life of trade; but it also
+encourages boys to do their level best. There would be a brave fight for
+that banner; and no walk-over. The troop that won it might well be proud
+of the honor. And Paul was still full of faith. He watched his scouts go
+through their various interesting stunts with a growing conviction that
+they must stand at the head when the day came for the meeting, and the
+report of the committee appointed to make the test was declared.
+
+He knew that fortune had been very kind in allowing himself and Jack to
+make a heavy score in favor of Stanhope Troop. The stopping of the
+runaway horse, and the saving of the baby at the fire would bring them
+many points. Then there was the wonderful letter from Washington, on
+official paper too, in which Mr. Jared Pender told the story of how much
+he had been helped by the Red Fox patrol in his task of capturing those
+desperate rascals who were flooding the whole country with their bogus
+money.
+
+But Paul was determined that, aside from the help afforded by these
+glorious deeds, the boys of Stanhope should excel all others in their
+knowledge of woodcraft, and the valuable things every boy with red blood
+in his veins should possess.
+
+So they kept up the good work after the scout master had left them.
+
+Long since had Bobolink received his bugle, and William his drum. Both
+proved very able in managing these musical instruments, and the shrill
+notes of the one, and the roll of the other, had become very familiar and
+acceptable sounds in Stanhope these fall days, when the first snow made
+its appearance.
+
+Already had they planned a great camp for the next summer, and there was
+talk of a grand hike into the almost unknown, to them, country far to the
+north. What strange adventures were destined to befall them during this
+eventful outing, together with the fun that William and Bobolink afforded
+the troop, will be recounted in the next volume, to be called: "The
+Banner Boy Scouts on a Tour; or, The Mystery of Rattlesnake Mountain."
+
+Even at school the teachers noticed that things seemed to move along much
+more smoothly than ever before. Some of them were inclined to suspect
+that a miracle had been wrought in boy nature; until it was shown that
+there were still quite a number of transgressors, and that not one of the
+bad ones belonged to the scouts. That opened their eyes, and after such
+evidence they were one and all heartily in favor of the organization that
+kept lads interested, taught them every noble duty that would make them
+better men later on, caused them to be manly, heroic, self-confident in
+time of sudden peril, and able to stand up for their rights.
+
+Thanksgiving came at last.
+
+The entire county showed a keen interest in the rivalry of the three
+troops for leadership. Each had its sturdy backers, who believed their
+home company to be the best; and hence when the choice of situation fell
+to Manchester, it looked as though nearly the entire population of
+Stanhope and Aldine had also gathered to cheer their favorites on.
+
+The competition was keenly contested. A dozen different events had been
+scheduled some time back by the committee, as the more important elements
+that would enter into the struggle; and the scout master of each patrol
+had been notified, so that he might select those most competent to
+succeed.
+
+Scout master Gordon, and later on his deputy, Paul, had been working with
+those who excelled in these various lines. Nothing was left undone to
+make them proficient in their work. When the critical time came, and
+before the eyes of thousands they lined up before the committee to take
+the test, Paul believed that success was sure to come.
+
+Football was in the air for the afternoon; but that morning every school
+flag fluttered in that densely packed field where the arena was laid.
+Scores upon scores of pretty girls clapped their hands, and sang
+patriotic songs that had reference to their particular town, whenever
+a Stanhope, a Manchester or an Aldine competitor started to prove his
+superior knowledge of the arts of woodcraft.
+
+Wallace Carberry brought the first honors to the Red Fox patrol. He had
+his quart of water boiling a full minute before either of his rivals;
+and retired amid thunderous applause. Wallace would show up in several
+other events, for he was the mainstay of Paul's contesting delegation.
+
+Then came other interesting object lessons. Many present failed to
+understand altogether what they signified; but they were patriotic, and
+ready to cheer the victor to the echo.
+
+On account of the lateness of the season several events that might have
+taken place at another time were debarred, such as swimming, fishing, and
+sports peculiar to the good old summer time.
+
+Nevertheless, there were plenty of others equally as interesting. Three
+boys entered as contestants in the rapid photography class. They took a
+snap shot at a given word, darted into separate prepared dark rooms,
+developed their plates, dried the same, each after his own fashion, and
+presented a completed picture before the other competitions were done.
+
+Meanwhile three others showed just how a scout should learn to follow a
+difficult trail, where all manner of obstacles stood in the way. While
+the crowd could not fully understand just how this was done, the
+committee seemed unanimous in awarding the victory once more to Wallace,
+for he had not made a single error, and he finished ahead of his rivals.
+
+Others were set to work tying ten difficult knots, and the fun waxed fast
+and furious as they worked their nimble fingers, keeping an eye on each
+other the while.
+
+In another place three tents were given to squads of boys from each
+patrol, and at the word they set to work to erect the same, dig a water
+drain in case of rain, and have everything in "apple-pie" shape. The
+committee gave plain warning that it was not speed alone that would count
+here, but the general ship-shape condition following the carrying out of
+the conditions.
+
+And again the boys of the Stanhope Troop came in winners by a good
+margin.
+
+Manchester drew a prize when the contest of landing a big fish came on.
+A boy played the part of the fish, and fought with all his strength and
+cunning to keep from being reeled in. But big Carl Evans, the Manchester
+fisherman, proved to be too strong and able for those who competed, and
+had his fish landed minutes ahead.
+
+The archers then took a turn. Here Aldine presented a clever expert, who
+had made this his especial hobby for some years. He could not be headed,
+though the other fellows from Stanhope and Manchester really made a very
+creditable showing.
+
+One of the most interesting exhibitions of the morning, and one that
+excited considerable cheering, was the "first aid to the injured."
+
+A boy was supposed to have fallen overboard into the river. In each case
+several contestants pretended to drag him out, placing him face downward,
+with his arms above his head, and his face a little to one side. Then one
+of the rescuers knelt astride the body, allowing his hands to press upon
+the spaces between the short ribs. By pressing downward the air was
+forced from the other's lungs, to creep in again when this was relaxed;
+and in this fashion an artificial respiration was induced that should
+grow stronger as minutes passed.
+
+Of course, as no boy was so accommodating as to fall into the cold waters
+of the Bushkill for the occasion, the contestants finished at the same
+time. The committee, after mature consultation, awarded the victory to
+the team accomplishing their work in the most business-like fashion.
+Aldine was so fortunate as to receive the award, and her people shouted
+themselves hoarse.
+
+In athletics the three competing troops proved very nearly even; and
+brought out rounds of cheers as they followed one another in carrying
+out the several events scheduled.
+
+Possibly when William proved his great superiority as a camp cook, by
+making the batter, and cooking a luscious flap-jack long before any other
+fellow could accomplish the feat, his victory was the most popular one of
+the day. Fully five score of fellows made motions to prove they were
+starved, and that a bite from the airy pancake would possibly serve as
+a life saver. But after the committee had tested it, William calmly
+devoured the balance, to the tune of mingled groans and cheers.
+
+Last of all came the wig-wagging contest, when boys sent and received
+messages fashioned by the committee, the nature of which was unknown at
+the other end. In this Stanhope again made a record that put her boys in
+the van, for Paul had secured and studied the army manual on using the
+signal flags, and to good advantage.
+
+After the twelfth and last event had been completed, the committee went
+into session, examined the papers they already held, and finally
+announced that Stanhope had carried off the prize with six clean events,
+the others being equally divided between the two clever troops from the
+other towns.
+
+It was undoubtedly a popular victory, judging from the record-breaking
+volume of noise that greeted the announcement. What else the chairman
+would have said, with regard to the great good the establishment of these
+patrols had brought to the county, was drowned in the wild clamor.
+
+Paul, acting for the absent scout master, accepted the beautiful banner
+presented by the good old Quaker who loved peace above all things. He was
+immediately swept off his feet, and carried in triumph around the field,
+waving the emblem that would from that hour stamp the Stanhope Troop as
+the Banner Boy Scouts of the county.
+
+Little Paul cared that some frowned, or that Ward Kenwood sneered as the
+procession marched past. Close by he could see the happy face of Arline,
+together with those of his parents; and it satisfied him to know that
+through his unflagging perseverance he had been able to land his scouts
+in the van.
+
+Other trials and contests would doubtless have to be encountered; but
+with that banner to encourage then the Fox patrols could meet each
+emergency as it arose, and struggle on through difficulties to a glorious
+success.
+
+
+THE END
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Banner Boy Scouts, by George A. Warren
+
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