A short time later the searchers returned laden down with provisions, and reported that they failed to find any signs of the enemy.
They had come upon a place where the ground appeared to have been lately disturbed, and on digging there discovered a large store of bacon, hard-tack, flour and potatoes.
Before waiting to discuss the situation, the hungry men at once proceeded to cook a hearty meal, two of them going in search of water, and while this work was being done Harvey had a long, serious conversation with Jet.
"There is no question but that they have grown frightened and run away," he said by way of beginning, and to this remark Jet assented, nodding his head.
"Our trip will have been a failure, despite the fact of having captured Joe, unless we also get Bob."
"It'll be mighty hard work to find him now."
"That may be; but yet I am depending upon you to do the work."
"Me?" Jet repeated in surprise.
"Certainly; what is to prevent?"
"I don't even know where to look for him."