"That doesn't smell like burning grease!" protested Ned as he sniffed the air. "It smells more like hay or straw burning!"

"Listen!" commanded Harry, raising a hand for attention.

All distinctly heard a crackling noise just outside the barn.

"Boys, this barn's on fire!" shouted Jimmie.


CHAPTER IX. A Mysterious Warning.

Ned gave a gasp of astonishment at the statement.

Rushing toward the window he attempted again to secure a view of their surroundings. Driven before a gust of wind a puff of smoke entered, causing the boy to step back choking.

"Can you crawl through that window, Jimmie?" asked Ned.