“Why, there isn’t much to tell,” said Dave. “He and I were raised at Earlville. His parents both died several years ago, and he wandered around a good deal. This is the first I’ve seen of him for over two years.” 69
“Might you not be mistaken—facial resemblance?”
“Not much,” observed Dave staunchly. “Think I don’t recognize my own relatives? Why, didn’t you notice how he acted?”
“Yes, surprised.”
“No, scared,” corrected Dave, “and ran away.”
“Why?” demanded Ralph.
“Well, from your seeming to know him under another name, I should say because he is found out. What game has he been playing on you, Fairbanks?”
“He has done me more good than harm,” evaded Ralph. “I’ve only known him since yesterday.”
“Well, he has run away, that’s certain. That bothers me. Fred Porter was never a sneak or a coward. He was full of jolly mischief and fun, but a better friend no fellow ever had.”
“He struck me that way,” said Ralph. “I hope he’ll come back. There’s my engine coming, and I’ll have to go on duty. Try and find him, Dave, will you?”