"I feel sorry for Nat Poole and his folks," said Laura. "This will give them a great deal of trouble, not to mention the expense."
"If Wilbur Poole was anywhere around Rayville it might pay to start a hunt for him," suggested Roger.
"I don't think you'll find him anywhere around here," answered Mr. Basswood. "But it won't hurt to take a look around, if you boys care to take a walk."
Ben's father went off to send his telegram to Aaron Poole, and all the boys set off on a hunt for the wild man. They covered the streets of the village and some of the roads on the outskirts, but without success. They met three people who had talked to the strange individual, and from what had passed Dave and his chums were sure that the man must have been Wilbur Poole.
"I guess we'll have to give it up," said Phil, when it was getting late. "I'm tired out. And remember, fellows, we have a hard ride before us to-morrow if we expect to reach Carpen Falls in time to hit the trail for Bear Camp before it gets dark."
When the boys reached the hotel the girls were anxious to hear what they might have to tell.
"It's too bad," said Jessie, soberly. "I am glad it is not one of my relatives who is roaming around like that."
Both Dunston Porter and Mr. Basswood had suggested an early start on the following morning, so the entire party were downstairs and to breakfast by seven o'clock. In the meantime the two automobiles had been overhauled, and provided with oil and gasoline, as well as with water.
"I've got rather a bad cut on one of the rear wheels," said Ben. "Perhaps I had better change the shoe before we start."
"Oh, take a chance on it!" cried Luke. "I think you'll get through all right enough."