Away we went through the woods that lined the east side of the road. It was bad walking, and with both my hands behind me I was several times in danger of stumbling. Indeed, once I did go down, but the firm grasp of my captors saved me from injury.
Presently we came to a long clearing, where it had once been the intention of some capitalists to build a railroad. But the matter had drifted into litigation, and nothing was done but to build a tool house and cut away the trees and brush.
The building had often been the resort of tramps, and was in a dilapidated condition. It was probably fifteen feet square, having a door at one end and a window at the other. The roof was flat and full of holes, but otherwise the building was fairly strong.
"Here we are, fellows," said Duncan, as we stopped in front of the door. "Just let go of him."
The others did as he requested. But they formed a small circle around me that I might not escape.
"Now that I have got you in a place free from interruption I intend to square up accounts with you," continued the president of the Models. "You hit me a foul blow this morning."
"You brought it on yourself, Duncan," I replied, as coolly as I could, though I was keenly interested.
"Stop! How many times must I tell you not to call me by my first name."
"Well, then, Woodward, if that suits you better."
"Mr. Woodward, if you please."