The station at Hankertown was a small one—there did not seem to be much business done there—and Mr. Bobbsey decided that the agent would probably remember having seen the old lady. He might even know her name and where she lived.
But when the twins’ father had told the agent what was wanted, asking if he knew the strange woman, the agent said:
“No, I can’t say I know her. But I do remember seeing her get off the train. She had a shawl, just as you describe.”
“Which way did she go?” asked Mr. Bobbsey. “Does she live in the village?”
“I can’t say, I’m sure. I don’t know where she lives. But she went up the wood road after she left the train.”
“Which is the wood road?” Mr. Bobbsey wanted to know. “It is very important that I find this old woman, or I should not trouble you with so many questions,” he said.
“Oh, that’s all right,” answered the station agent, good-naturedly. “I’m used to answering questions. That’s why I’m here. The wood road is that one crossing the track and going up though the woods,” he explained, pointing.
Then Mr. Bobbsey and the children noticed it—a narrow, winding road, half hidden amid the trees.
“Where does it lead to?” asked Mr. Bobbsey.
“Well, if you keep on it long enough, and don’t turn off on any of the side trails, it will take you to Coopertown.”