Merriwell, seeing Bradlaugh beckon to him, left Clancy and Handy talking with the colonel, and moved over to hear what Brad had to say.
“Chip,” whispered Brad excitedly, “there’s a hen on!”
“What do you mean?”
“I mean that Lenning is up to some dirty move or other, that’s what I mean.”
“Bosh! I’ve been watching him like a weasel, and I——”
“I don’t mean during the play,” Brad interrupted, “but over there on that rock pile where he’s been talking with Parkman.”
“What’s happened?”
“I was over there myself, stretched out for a little rest. I was on one side of the bowlders, and those two came up and sat on the other side. Parkman handed Lenning something. ‘That’s from Bleeker,’ I heard him say, ‘and he says it contains some hot news about Darrel and Merriwell.’ That’s all that was said. Parkman sneaked off as though he was afraid some one would see him. I got up to move away, and looked back, to see Lenning reading a note. His face was savage. He made as though he’d tear up the note, then changed his mind and pushed it in between the lacings of his jacket. What do you suppose is going on?”
“Whatever it is, Brad,” answered Merriwell calmly, “it’s none of my business.”
“But Parkman mentioned your name and Darrel’s. Certainly it is some of your business.”