The aviator stood in the doorway, but came no farther.
"Because I have to take Pete away. I've had a billet doux from Rufus Carder and he wants him."
The dwarf rushed to his new master on quaking legs. "Oh, Master! I won't go! I can't go." He looked off wildly on the big billows rolling in. "I'll throw myself in the sea."
Ben put a hand on the boy's shoulder.
"Of course you won't go," he said; "but you want to brighten up your wits now and remember everything that will help us. We're going to the city to-night and begin at once to settle that gentleman's affairs." He gave Geraldine a reassuring look. "I should like to take your father's letter with me," he added quietly.
"But we mustn't get Pete into trouble," she replied doubtfully.
"I'm not intending to show it. I want to familiarize myself with his handwriting. I expect to have an interview and perhaps there will be notes to examine."
"But not at the farm," protested the girl quickly. "You'll not go near the meadow?"
"No; the cows have nothing to fear from us this time."
"And you'll"—Geraldine swallowed—"you'll be careful?"