She did not finish the sentence. Through the hollow stillness that seemed to weigh down her words sounded a mournful groan.
CHAPTER IX
AN EXCITED CONSTABLE
“What was that?” whispered Marie.
“Some one is hurt!” murmured Natalie.
Mrs. Bonnell began a search for her useful little ammonia gun, but found she had left it in camp.
“Where was that noise, fellows?” demanded practical Jack. Before any of them could answer him the groan sounded again, louder than before. With a bound Marie was out of the door narrowly missing a fall on the rickety steps. Mabel followed, but Natalie and Alice stood their ground, perhaps because Mrs. Bonnell had grasped each of them by an arm.
“Don’t be silly,” exclaimed Phil. “Probably it’s only a tramp who’s talking in his sleep.”
“A tramp!” gasped Natalie.
“Come out of here!” demanded Alice, getting, ready for a retreat.