“Perhaps he thought Paul had some important papers,” suggested Andy.
“I’m sure I haven’t,” and once more the unfortunate youth passed his hand across his forehead. “I wish I could recall when it was, and under what circumstances, I met that man before. But I can’t. Only I’m sure of one thing—he is an enemy of mine—and of my father.”
“Can you recall anything of your father—or mother?” asked Mrs. Racer softly.
“No,” answered Paul with a shake of his head; and tears filled his eyes.
“Well, I know one thing!” exclaimed Frank decidedly. “I’m going to have another try at finding that man. I’m sure he’s in this vicinity now. He’s hanging around here for some reason, and we have a double motive in locating him. I believe he set our boat on fire,” and for the first time he told his parents of his suspicions.
“Be careful if you do meet him,” cautioned Mr. Racer. “He is evidently a dangerous character. Now to see what the police can do, and then we’ll go back to bed.”
The police could do very little, as might be expected, though they promised to keep a lookout for the fellow. They made an utterly useless inspection of the house and grounds, and left. Then the family and Paul went to bed to get what little sleep they could.
Frank and Andy discussed the matter long and earnestly the next day. Paul was not so well, on account of the fright, and so it was not thought wise to have him accompany them on a sailing trip.
“I’m not so sure it will do any good to go off in our boat,” declared Andy. “That fellow is just as likely to be on land as at sea.”
“I think he’s more likely to be at sea,” declared Frank. “He wants to get that damaged motor boat.”