After the signaling had ceased, the Scouts waited until Rhodes had returned to his cottage. Then rejoining Ken at their own camp, they discussed the strange flashes.
Reluctantly, the Scouts agreed with Mr. Livingston that it would be folly to set off into wild country in search of a bandit camp.
“With more definite information, we may be able to get the authorities to step in,” the Scout leader suggested. “I propose that we disregard Rhodes’ order to leave, and stay here a few days longer to see what we can learn.”
“If Rhodes was signaling Carlos, it’s a cinch he plotted Mr. Corning’s kidnapping,” Jack speculated. “But how can we prove it?”
When no one answered, he abruptly arose from the fire. “Phillipe may be our answer,” he asserted. “I’m going to try once more to talk to him.”
Pulling on a heavy jacket, he swung down a dark path toward the miner’s hut.
He had walked only a short distance when a figure suddenly emerged from the shadows. Rhodes stood there, blocking the trail.
“Out rather late, aren’t you?” the engineer asked.
“Just taking a walk,” Jack muttered.
“Better walk back to your camp.”