“You’re afraid we may not find Mr. Corning at Santa Marta?” Jack guessed.
“The thought does bother me. It’s a little out of our way in going to the mine. Another thing—”
“What’s that?” Jack asked as the Scout leader hesitated.
“I’m borrowing trouble, I guess. But I can’t help wishing I hadn’t allowed Ferd Baronni to make our travel arrangements. He seemed too eager to do it.”
“You don’t trust him?”
“Not entirely,” Mr. Livingston admitted. “He dislikes Appleby Corning. Furthermore, he’s resented our mission here.”
“I noticed that. We could cancel the arrangements.”
The Scout leader considered for a moment, then shook his head. “No, we’ll let them stand,” he decided. “I’m ashamed of my suspicions. The sled-boat trip should prove to be an interesting diversion. I’m looking forward to it.”
Chapter 7
TOIL AND TROUBLE
Mr. Livingston and the Explorers presented themselves at the dock promptly at seven o’clock the following morning.