“An order?”
“Yes. I once heard of a good-for-nothing book agent who used to collect autographs. After that he would write out an order for books over each signature.”
“Good heavens! Perhaps that chap is a swindler!” ejaculated the ex-mayor, turning pale. “Where is he?”
“He has left the grounds.”
A search was made, but Gabe Flecker had disappeared and could not be traced.
“I’d give five dollars to have that autograph back,” groaned Sinclair Basswood. “How foolish to give it to an utter stranger.”
“Let us hope that it is all right,” replied Frank. “Remember, there are many honest autograph hunters in this world, and Mr. Flecker may be one of them. But I must admit I do not like his looks.”
CHAPTER XX
FRANK’S REMARKABLE FIND
Two days later, while out after orders, Frank met Samuel Windham. The young farmer had an exceedingly sober look on his face.