They moved onward for about an eighth of a mile further, and then Jack called a halt.
“I see something moving over yonder,” he said, pointing with his hand. “I think we had better investigate.”
With increased caution, for they wished if possible to surprise the enemy, they went forward, keeping as much as possible behind the bushes lining the wood road. Then they made a turn, and off in a little glade to the left they saw the horse and wagon, the animal being tied to a tree. At the edge of the glade were several tents, and in front of them the remains of a campfire.
“Do you see anybody?” questioned Pepper, in a whisper.
“Yes, I see Ritter and Coulter, back of the tents,” answered Jack. “I see some of the fellows in the tents,” announced Dale. “They are fast asleep.”
“Most likely tired out, because of last night’s work,” said another cadet. He looked at Jack. “What do you want us to do, Major?”
“You fellows look in the wagon and see if our stuff is there,” was the reply. “Come, Pep, let us walk behind those bushes and see if we can discover anything more. If Ritter and Coulter are hatching out more mischief we want to know it.”
“I am with you,” answered The Imp.
“If the stuff is in the wagon, shall we drive off with it?” questioned Dale.
“Yes, but don’t go too far, Dale,” answered Jack. “We may want you and the other fellows here.”