"Just the same," said Ruth, "he maybe had the box of money and papers hidden on the island, as he said. That is what Jerry has been looking for. And I wager that man Blent is afraid he will find it."
"How romantic!" laughed Mrs. Tingley.
"But, do wait till Mr. Tingley comes and let him decide," begged Ruth.
"Surely. And I will tell Mr. Preston to refuse any of Blent's demands. He is a queer old fellow, I know. And, come to think of it, he told us he wanted to make some investigations regarding the caves at the west end of the island. He wouldn't sell us the place without reserving in the deed the rights to all mineral deposits and to treasure trove."
"What's 'treasure trove,' Mrs. Tingley?" asked Ruth, quickly.
"Why—that would mean anything valuable found upon the land which is not naturally a part of it."
"Like a box of money, or papers?"
"Yes! I see. I declare, child, maybe the boy, Jerry, has told you the truth!"
"I am sure he has. He seemed like a perfectly honest boy," declared Ruth, anxiously.
"I will see Mr. Preston again," spoke Mrs. Tingley, decisively.