It was not until two days later that Roger came back to Crumville. His face showed his disappointment.
“Such mean luck!” he exclaimed, when he met Dave, Phil, and Ben. “I went to four towns, looking for Hooker Montgomery, and at last I found out that he had left the east several days ago.”
“Where did he go to?” questioned our hero.
“The folks I met couldn’t tell exactly, but they thought to visit a rich aunt in the far west.”
This was a great disappointment, for they had hoped to learn much more concerning the plans of Jasniff and Merwell, from the fake doctor.
“We might send him a letter, to his last residence. Maybe the post-office authorities will forward it,” suggested Phil.
“I did that,” answered the senator’s son. “I told him that I wanted to hear from him at once, and that it would be money in his pocket to write or to telegraph to me. I didn’t mention your name, Dave, for I thought he might hear of this robbery and get suspicious.”
It was ideal weather for skating and sleighing, but none of the young folks at the Wadsworth mansion felt like going out for fun. All could see that the older folks were much worried, and consequently, they were worried, too.
“Oh, Dave, what if those jewels are never recovered?” said Laura to her brother, when they were alone. “It will just about ruin Mr. Wadsworth, Uncle Dunston says.”
“Let us hope for the best, Laura.”