The twins had passed a restless night following the continued absence from the school of their cousins. Early in the morning they had gone out in company with Gif and Spouter, and covered many miles in a vain search for the absent ones. They could not settle down to their class work, and so were excused by Professor Brice.
"Well, I've got to be getting back to the classroom," remarked Frank Newberry, presently, and he and several others who were present hurried away, leaving the twins to themselves.
The boys walked down the roadway which had been followed by the hunters the day before. They had covered only a short distance when they saw a farm wagon approaching, with Captain Dale beside it on his horse.
"There they are!" cried Andy, and an instant later added in amazement: "Old Lacy and one of his men are with them!"
"Yes. And I bet that spells trouble for Jack and Fred," announced his brother.
The old farmer would not stop for the boys on the roadside, but drove directly to the Colby Hall entrance.
"Why! what's the matter?" exclaimed Randy to the military instructor.
"A little trouble, boys," was Captain Dale's answer. "You'll hear about it later." And then he went after the wagon, and the boys took to their heels and followed.
"Now then, you do what you promised!" snapped Elias Lacy, after Jack and Fred had jumped from the wagon. "Don't let 'em run away, nohow!"
"You can rest assured that I will take care of them, Mr. Lacy," answered the captain coldly.