The boy, leading the horse, advanced toward the automobile, which Mr. Bobbsey had stopped.
“Mornin’, neighbors,” called the youth pleasantly and not at all bashfully. “You’re out early.”
“I might say the same of you,” remarked Mr. Bobbsey. “We’ve been out all night—lost in the woods. Can you put me on the road to Hankertown?”
“Straight ahead and take the first turn to the left,” said the lad. “You’re on the old lumber road that isn’t used much any more. This horse seems to like it, for he ran away last night and I only just found him.”
“I think we found him first,” said Mr. Bobbsey, and he described the visit of the animal in the night.
“I reckon that was our horse,” the boy said. “It’s just like old Jim to go pokin’ his nose in where he isn’t wanted. Hope he didn’t do any damage.”
“Not any,” laughed Mr. Bobbsey. “And I’m much obliged to you for setting us right. I got all mixed up on these wood roads. Is there any restaurant or eating place before I get to Hankertown?”
“Restaurant? Good land, no! But say! ain’t you folks had any breakfast?” he demanded.
“Not yet,” said Mr. Bobbsey.
“Well, neither have I, but I reckon on havin’ some right soon. Our house is only about a mile back, on another road. If you want to go there my mother’ll be glad to give you something hot.”