"Yes, and there is Uncle Randolph waiting for us," added Dick, as he hurried forward to meet his relative. "How do you do, Uncle!" he cried.
"I am well, Richard," answered Randolph Rover, and then he shook hands with all three boys. "Your—er—your father—" he began and hesitated.
"Father? What of him?" asked Tom, in quick alarm, for he saw that his uncle was much disturbed.
"Isn't he with you?"
"Why, no!" answered the three, in a chorus.
"He started for home last night," added Dick.
"Took the train after the one you and Aunt Martha took."
"But he didn't come home," said Randolph Rover.
"Didn't come home?"
"No."