Dave and Hank whispered together a moment, then the former said:
“Step out here, one by one, so I can get a good look at you.”
Fleet was the first to obey this command.
Dave and Hank looked him up and down, then shook their heads.
“Nope,” said Hank, “that can’t be him.”
Each of the other boys in turn underwent the close scrutiny of their captors, and when the inspection was over both Dave and Hank seemed in a quandary.
“Don’t none of ’em answer the description,” said Hank, a dismal note in his voice. “What we goin’ to do now?”
“Do I take it from your remarks that one of you saw these thieves?” asked Chot.
“Yes,” returned Dave, and there was a more civil note in his voice. “My old woman saw ’em both, and one of ’em pretty distinctly. He was a big man—bigger’n any of you fellers. I guess we owe you an apology. You’re not the thieves, but still you’re trespassing on my land. I don’t allow no campers here.”
“Now, look here, Mr.—er——” began Chot.