The good news of the location of Mr. Jackson was so unexpected, that, for a few moments the little party in Mr. Slade’s office hardly knew how to take it. Then they all began talking at once, at least the boys did, until the merchant, with a laugh, remarked that they were making so much noise that the clerks would think something serious had happened. This quieted the three chums.
“Well, we’d better get started,” urged Jerry. “Mr. Jackson may get away from Durham any minute.”
“Oh, I don’t believe he’s as bad as that,” ventured Mr. Slade. “If he’s there for his health he’ll be likely to remain for some time. I’d go see him myself, but I dare not leave my business at this critical juncture.”
“Oh, we’re only too glad to try and get into touch with him for you,” asserted Bob. “How can we tell him if we meet him? Does Ned know him?”
“No,” answered Mr. Slade’s son. “I never saw him, but dad has his picture.”
“Then we can take that along, and do a little detective work,” suggested Jerry. “We’ll inquire for a Mr. Jackson, and if he’s like the picture he’ll be our man.”
“I’m afraid the photograph wouldn’t be of great help,” said Mr. Slade. “It was taken a number of years ago, and I fancy Mr. Jackson has changed much in that time. However, I can describe him to you, and give you a letter to him, and that may answer. As I said, I ought really to go myself, but if I left here, my enemies would only make more trouble for me. Mr. Jackson is the only man who can help me.”
There was more talk, and Mr. Slade gave his son and the latter’s chums some directions as to how to proceed. He also made out certain documents, which, if Mr. Jackson would sign, would end the department store troubles.
“Now to get our auto in shape!” exclaimed Jerry as they prepared to leave the store. “I hope we can get some speed out of the machine without too much tinkering.”
“We’ll give it a try-out,” decided Bob. “Take a little run this afternoon, and see how she works.”