He was the first to reach the kidnappers’ headquarters. Dalsett was with him.
“I wonder how our captive is?” said the latter.
He went up to the room where Bob had been locked up. To his surprise and anger, the apartment was empty.
“Maximina!” he called.
There was no answer.
“They’ve gone!” he exclaimed. “Here, Noddy, ride back and meet Vasco. Tell him Bob has got away!”
The automobile was sent flying down the road. Vasco Bilette and his party were met and the news quickly imparted.
“We’ll catch ’em!” cried the Mexican. “They have only a few hours’ start, and only two slow ponies to ride on. Here, I’ll go in the auto with Noddy. You fellows come after me!”
Vasco took Jack Pender’s place in the machine and soon the chase was on. Vasco rightly concluded that Bob and Maximina would head for the south, so he, too, took the road leading in that direction.