"Better arm yourselves with clubs," suggested Nick Jasniff. "Remember, we are only three to five."
"Maybe we had better—er—go away," returned the money-lender's son, hesitatingly.
"No, I am going to see the thing out," answered Jasniff.
"So am I," added Merwell. "Don't go, Nat—they won't dare to fight—with the girls looking on."
"Whoa, there! Whoa!" came a cry from behind the two touring cars, and looking back the boys and girls saw a man drive up on a buckboard drawn by a spirited horse.
"Why, if it isn't Jed Sully!" cried Ben.
"Who is he?" questioned Sam.
"Sort of a roadmaster in these parts. I suppose he is going around, inspecting the roads and bridges."
"Then he ought to be able to tell us about this road!" put in Phil, quickly.
"Hello! What's the meaning of this?" demanded Jed Sully, after alighting. And he strode forward and confronted the boys.