"Why, I'll go over there where the fire started. I may be able to learn something."
"Better take one of the boys with you," Mr. Carson cautioned him. "That's in the direction of Molick's ranch, and they may be in a bad humor. Take some one with you."
When Dave's intention was made known Pocus Pete and Mr. Bellmore offered to accompany him. Dave was glad to have them.
They rode over the blackened, scarcely-cooled area, there being light enough from the distant flames to enable them to see well. But there was nothing to observe—that is at first.
Finally, however, as they went on, Dave gave a sudden exclamation.
"What is it?" asked the engineer.
"Hush! Not so loud!" was Dave's caution. "Don't you see some one crouched down in the grass there, lighting matches?"
The other two looked to where he pointed. They did indeed see a dark figure. Suddenly it became plain, and the three saw some one stooping over in the dry grass, setting fire to it with matches.
"The scoundrel!" cried Mr. Bellmore. "Who is he?"
"I don't know, but we'll soon find out," said Pocus Pete, grimly. "Come on, boys!"