“Yes, Harry, but the watch and chain are worth more than the nuts. If you’ll remember, they were my birthday present from father.”
“Oh, we’ve got to get back the watch and chain. Come on—the sooner we find a farmhouse and get assistance the better. More than likely those tramps won’t stay at the barn very long.”
Scarcely able to drag one foot after the other, the two Westmore boys continued on their way. The snow had now stopped coming down, yet the keen fall wind was as sharp as ever. But presently the wind shifted and then they made better progress.
“I see a farmhouse!” cried Harry, a little later.
“Not much of a place,” returned his brother. “Yet we may get help there,—who knows?”
When the cottage—it was no more than that—was reached, Joe knocked loudly on the door.
“Who is there?” came in a shrill voice from inside.
“Two boys,” answered Joe. “We want help, for some tramps have robbed us.”
“I can’t help you. The tramps robbed me, too—stole two of my best chickens. I’m an old man and I must watch my property. You go to Neighbor Dugan’s—he’ll help you, maybe.”
“Where is Dugan’s place?”