"I wonder if we couldn't find some guide who knows that territory thoroughly," mused Dick.
"If you could find a good guide, I wouldn't mind your going," said his parent. "But I shall object to your going alone."
"Then we'll hunt for a guide, and without delay," said Dick. "I would like to go up there before Putnam Hall opens again."
"So would I," came from his two brothers.
"I think I know where you can get a guide," said Tom, after a pause. "The Lanings have relatives at Timber Run. Let's write to Mr. Laning."
This was agreed to, and a special trip was made to the village by Aleck Pop to post the letter. In the letter they asked Mr. Laning to telegraph, if possible, in reply.
The telegram came shortly after noon the next day. It ran as follows:
"I feel sure my brother-in-law, John Barrow, of Timber Run, can supply a reliable guide. Will write to him.
"JOHN LANING."
"That settles it," said Dick. "I know the Lanings will do what is right by us, so we may as well get ready to start at once. Are you willing, father?"