"I think it will be best, if you can afford it," said Ben. "He knows the country, and I don't. Three months from now I should be willing to start off alone, but now-"

"It is much better that you should have company."

"It will cost you a good deal of money, Cousin Ida."

"I shall not grudge a large sum, if need be, to find Richard. When can you see this man again?"

"To-morrow morning."

"Bring him here, and I will make arrangements with him."


CHAPTER XIII. — PRELIMINARY ARRANGEMENTS.

At nine o'clock on the following morning Ben found Jake Bradley at the appointed rendezvous.