"He had a very pretty little girl of about six years old—little Maud. Two or three days since, as I hear from a friend in the city, the little girl mysteriously disappeared."
"Disappeared?"
"Just so. Her parents think she must have been kidnapped, as a suspicious-looking person had been noticed by the nurse hovering near when they were out walking together."
"They must be in great trouble and anxiety," said Bob, in a tone of sympathy, "if they believe this."
"They would be glad to believe it, for in that case the little girl is alive, while otherwise she may have strayed to the river and been drowned. Mr. Pearson, who is wealthy, has offered a reward of one thousand dollars to any one who will restore his little girl to him."
As they sat at table, Bob noticed through the window the man Minton, who had called upon him on the arrival of the boat.
"Do you know that man, Mr. Baker?" he asked, suddenly.
The drummer shook his head.
"I am a stranger, too," he said. "But perhaps this gentleman, who is in business at Rocky Creek, may be able to give you some information."
Thus appealed to, the old gentleman looked from the window.