“What will become of Kate in the meanwhile?” asked Mr. Snodgrass. “Though she has queer ideas concerning you I think she is your friend. Will she be able to live in these woods all alone?”
“Kate is able to take care of herself,” was the reply. “She was in these woods before I came and she may be here after I am gone. But I will tell her where I am going, and that I expect to return.”
A trip was made to the hermit’s hut, and, after several blasts had been blown on the conch horn, Kate appeared. She was overjoyed to see the aged man again, and was told of the latest developments.
“You had better hurry up then, and get away from these woods,” said the woman.
“Why so?” asked Jerry.
“Because there are a number of strange men lurking about,” was the answer. “I think they are after this good old man. So be on your guard.”
“It is the same crowd,” said Mr. Bell. “They hate to give me up.”
“What do they want of you?” asked Jerry. “You said you might tell us the secret some day, adding that perhaps we could help you. Maybe we can help you now.”
“You can help me, and you have helped me,” said Mr. Bell. “I can tell you the rest of my story now. As I said I have long been in quest of some one. That some one is my son Tommy. I did not want to tell you of him before, as I was afraid the news would get out. Nor did I tell you why the gang wanted me in their power. It is because I hold the final title to a piece of valuable property, and they can not get possession of it until I sign off, which I refused to do!”
“Why so?” asked Mr. Snodgrass.