"These came in from Wadebridge this marnin'," she explained. "They were too late to be sent on from there last night. I was just a-going to ask Peter Varco if he'd mind a-taking them across to 'e."
"What's up now, I wonder?" asked Atherton, looking at the six envelopes.
The first one was from Mr Trematon: "Just heard of rescue. I am proud of my Scouts."
The second was from Mr Buckley: "Missed connection at Exeter. Arriving to-morrow morning 11.45."
The third completely mystified the Scout.
"Again I am indebted to Scouts for a good turn to me and mine. Am coming to Polkerwyck to personally thank you—Silas Gwinnear."
"What ever does Sir Silas mean?" asked Atherton. "How have we done him a good turn? I vote we reply to say that we do not know that we have done anything for him, unless he means that by helping Farmer Trebarwith complete his haymaking we have rendered Sir Silas a service in a roundabout way."
"Better wait a bit," suggested Sayers. "I am as much in the dark as you; but evidently Sir Silas knows more than we do. What's in the other telegrams, Atherton?"
Number four was from headquarters: "Well done, Scouts. Glad you know how to 'Be prepared.'"
Numbers five and six, couched in similar terms, came from two North London troops who had often co-operated with the 201st, and were well acquainted with the "Otters" and the "Wolves."