The story was soon told, the boys meanwhile hitching the horses to the wagons.
“I hope those Pornell fellows have to remain at the old cottage all night,” said Pepper. “It will serve ’em right.”
“We ought to get a crowd and go there and wipe up the floor with ’em!” said the lad who loved to eat.
“We’ll see what can be done after we get back to Hayville,” answered Jack. “I can drive one wagon. Can you chaps drive the others?”
“Sure!” came in a chorus from his chums.
“Then let us be off. Captain Putnam will be much worried until he learns that the outfit is safe.”
Not without some difficulty the wagons were turned around and taken to the main road. Then the horses were urged on, and it was not long before they came in sight of Hayville. Almost the first persons they met were Captain Putnam, George Strong and one of the wagon drivers.
“Safe, eh?” cried the master of the Hall. “I am glad to hear it.” And his face showed his relief.
He insisted upon knowing the details and Jack told us as much as he deemed necessary.
“It was only a schoolboy trick, sir,” he added. “I guess they meant no harm.”