The second search proved no more satisfactory than the first. The boy was no richer than the man.
In a low voice Jack indulged in an oath indicating his deep disgust.
"I didn't think they were such poor tramps," he said to himself, "or I wouldn't have taken all this trouble. Only ten dollars between the two of them! Why, they're little more than beggars?"
Stay! They might have concealed their money. There was no place in the loft, for it was wholly bare of furniture, but their luggage was thrown down carelessly. There were no lodes, and Jack was able to extend his search to their knapsacks; but he found nothing that repaid him. He was forced finally to the conclusion that they were as poor as they seemed.
Had Jack Carter been one of those generous highwaymen, of whom we sometimes read, he would have disdained to rob Ben and his friend of their little all. But indeed that was not his style.
He coolly pocketed the two gold pieces, which were all he had been able to find, and sullenly descended the ladder.
His wife looked at him inquiringly.
"Look at that!" he said grumblingly, as he displayed the two gold pieces.
"Was it all you could find?"
"Yes."