“What did you mean by coming here and trying to throw a bluff into us about the package still being in our kits when you yourself took it from the table in the hut?” demanded Jimmie aggressively.
“You’re mistaken, boys, I don’t know what you’re talking about!”
“Then you’ve got a mighty poor memory!” declared the lad.
“Mr. Mackinder,” Ned said in a low tone vibrant with indignation, “if you’ve quite satisfied yourself that we have not got the package you seem to be seeking we’ll excuse you. We don’t want your company any more, and we shall try to proceed upon our journey alone.”
“But, see here, boys—” Mackinder attempted to explain.
“Not another word!” cried Ned rising. “There is the door and you are at liberty to use it quickly. You are welcome to the package!”
“You will find out later on,” Mackinder said, as he started to leave the room in company with Norton, “that I’ve been trying to help you out of mighty suspicious circumstances. You are ungrateful!”
“Good-bye!” called out Jimmie. “Don’t slam the door!”
For a moment the boys gazed at one another in amazement after the two men had left the room. They were excited and puzzled.
“Well, this is a stunner!” declared Ned at length.