This time Joe’s spade hit the object which had been buried. As his father had prophesied, it proved to be only a bone secreted by some dog.
The three Hardys transferred their work to the new tower. All this time Hurd Applegate had been looking on in silence. From the corners of their eyes, the Hardys could catch an expression of satisfaction on the elderly man’s face.
Mr. Hardy glanced at his wrist watch, then said, “Well, boys, I guess this is our last try.” He indicated another spot a few feet away. “You fellows must get cleaned up and go to school.”
Undaunted by their failures so far, Frank and Joe dug in with a will. In a few moments they had uncovered another small chest.
“Wow, this one is heavy!” Frank said as he lifted it from the hole.
“Then maybe-maybe it’s the stolen property!” Joe exclaimed.
Even Mr. Applegate showed keen interest this time and leaned over to raise the lid himself. The box contained several sacks.
“The jewels!” Joe cried out.
“And that flat-shaped sack could contain the securities!” Frank said enthusiastically.
Mr. Applegate picked up one of the circular bags and quickly untied the string wound about the top. His face took on a look of utter disgust. “Seeds!” he fairly shouted.