"It's purty light to-day," said the postmaster, as he took the mail pouch from the postboy and carried it into the Hollow Tree, that had been fitted up in a rude sort of way with recesses for the few letters and papers making up the intercourse the people of the Blazed Acre had with the outside world.
While Dix waited for Dan Shag to sort the mail, a quartet of ill-looking men, whom he recognized as representatives of the isolated settlement, emerged from the growth surrounding the Hollow Tree and shambled up to the spot.
"Meet th' boys up yonder?" asked the foremost of the newcomers, jerking his thumb over his shoulder after the manner of Pewee Burrnock.
He was Robin, another of the brothers of that name, more repulsive-looking than any of the others, if that were possible.
Little Snap nodded.
"Any trouble?"
Before the postboy could reply, Dan Shag reappeared upon the scene with a startled look upon his face.
"What does this mean, boy?" he demanded, fiercely.
"I don't understand you," replied Little Snap, in surprise.
"Where's the package for Hollow Tree? The letters and things, I mean," he added, seeing Little Snap's look of amazement.