He knew that he was being punished for his disobedience. He knew that if he ever escaped from this wicked man he would always obey his parents.
Tom often joked with Philippe, and the boy told him stories about the country through which they traveled. But all the while, Tom did not know what plans were shaping in Philippe's head.
One day as they tramped along, Philippe carried a letter in his pocket. The letter was to Papa Pomme. Philippe was planning to post the letter when they reached Charleroi (shär-le-roi'), in the evening.
In it he told Papa Pomme everything. But he told him not to worry, that he was well, and also that he was laying a plan to capture the thief.
Part of Philippe's letter read: "I shall try to make him spend Monday night in the Cave of the Crows. That is the big rock between Namur (nâ-mür') and Dinant (dē-nän'). Send some one to that place, for if my plan succeeds we shall be there."
ON THE ROAD TO DINANT
The Cave of the Crows is a mysterious rock out on the open road. There is a folk tale connected with it, and part of Philippe's plan was to tell this tale to Tom.
As they walked along, the boy kept thinking over his plan.