"Next week I think; but that is of minor importance just now. The supposed location of the purchase is to be pointed out to the surveyors, therefore one of you must remain here until they arrive.
"When do you expect them?"
"On the first train to-morrow."
"Fred can wait for 'em, an' I'll leave in time to get there by daylight."
"Very well; make your preparations to stay until I send word that it is no longer necessary."
Joe and Fred left the office to purchase such provisions as might be needed while holding possession of the disputed property, and when this had been done the question arose as to how word could be sent to Bill.
"The story is too long for a telegram," Fred said, "so suppose we say by wire that there is nothing particularly new, and write a letter?"
"Go ahead. I ain't much of a fist with a pen, so while you're tellin' the yarn I'll send the message."
Joe retired early in order to be in readiness for the journey, and Fred was not awake when, shortly after midnight, he slipped out of the house.
It was not an easy matter to find his way in the darkness; but he finally succeeded after straying from the right course several times, and was thoroughly astonished at finding half a dozen men already in possession.