"We'll go look for the Hindoos and Haidee," said Matt. "As I jog along, Carl, you keep watch for the place where you turned from the road. Meanwhile, Joe," Matt added, "you take the lacquered box and open it. We'll see what's inside. The contents may shed a little light on this mystery of the girl."
"Der Hindoos und der girl von't be vere dey vas," remarked Carl, handing the box to McGlory.
"They can't possibly be far away," answered Matt. "They have to travel on foot, now, and will be compelled to go slow."
"This box is locked, pard," called McGlory.
"Force the lid, then," said Matt. "It's necessary, according to my notion, that we try and find out something about Haidee. And for the girl's good."
McGlory opened his pocketknife and inserted the blade between the box and the lid. The lock splintered out under pressure.
"She's open, pard," announced the cowboy.
"What's inside?"
"A bundle of letters tied with a piece of twine."
"Ah!"