“I wonder if they found any evidence of those who have been helping themselves to things in our camp?” observed Natalie, as she and her companions left the large tent.
“We’ll ask them later,” said Marie.
“Have you folks been missing things?” asked Reuben, as he overheard the talk.
“Yes,” answered Alice, “Whom do you think could have taken the stuff?”
“It’s them Gypsies!” declared Reuben. “Lots of folks around here are complainin’ of missing things. Not only the farmers but some cottagers and campers. Them Gypsies ought to be driven away. They’re a regular nuisance comin’ here every year.”
“But where are they?” asked Mabel.
“Over at Bear Pond, some one told me. Did you girls find it that day all right?”
“Oh, yes—we found it,” answered Marie, for they had agreed that they would not needlessly admit their failure to select the right road home.
“And did you see ’em?”
“No,” answered Mrs. Bonnell. And then, wishing to change the conversation she asked: