“Do you like your business?” asked Harry, curiously.
“Why shouldn’t I? I have a chance to travel. The people appreciate my efforts and reward me generously.”
By a fortunate accident Harry happened to turn in his seat and look through a small window in the back part of the wagon. What he saw startled him. In a buggy, ten rods back, he recognized his late guardian and Joel. They were making good speed, and were doubtless in pursuit of him.
Harry quickly imparted his discovery to his companion.
“Don’t let them capture me!” he said.
“I should like to see him do it,” responded the professor. “Get into the back part of the wagon, and crouch down.”
Harry did as directed.
Then the professor slackened his speed, and allowed the pursuers to overtake him.
“I say, stranger,” said Fox, as he drew up alongside. “A boy ran away from me this morning. Perhaps you have seen him?”
“I saw a boy about a mile back,” said the magician, reflectively, “a stout, good-looking lad, dark-brown hair, and a pleasant expression; didn’t look at all like you. I chatted with him a while. He said he was leaving a man who claimed to be his guardian, but wasn’t.”