Then, with a strange feeling, he walked slowly toward the remains of the trunk, and stepping upon one of the broken pieces, drew himself up and peered down into the hollow, rotten cavity.
He had been standing in the sunshine but a short time before, and it takes the pupil of the eye some time to become adapted to such a sudden change.
At first all was blank darkness, but shortly Fred saw something gleaming in the bottom of the opening. He thought it was that peculiar fungus growth known as "fox-fire," but his vision rapidly grew more distinct, and drawing himself further up, he reached down and touched the curious objects with his hand.
Eureka!
There was all the silver plate which had been stolen from the old brick mansion a few nights before. Not a piece was missing!
Fred Sheldon had discovered it at last, and as he dropped back again on his feet, he threw his cap into the air and gave a shout, for just about that time he felt he was the happiest youngster in the United States of America!
On finding the stolen silver, Fred threw his cap in the air and gave a shout.