"As dead as a door nail—if I git the chance," added Maybe Dixon, firmly.
They passed a turn in the river, and then came out into something of a clearing. As they did this they caught sight of something far ahead, just entering another stretch of the woodland.
"What was that?" questioned Maybe Dixon, excitedly.
"It looked to me like our wagon, but I ain't sure," answered Si, with equal excitement. "I hope it is ours!"
"Hump along a bit faster, lad."
They did "hump" along, almost on a run. The trail was now hard and smooth, so that anybody driving a horse or mule could cover the ground with ease. They came to another clearing and once more caught a brief glimpse of something in front.
"I believe it is our wagon!" cried Si. "Anyway the back certainly looks very much like it."
"I think I saw a man on the ground, walking," added Maybe Dixon.
"Then there must be two thieves!"
"There may be more."