Bill received the lock of hair with demonstrative joy and effusive thanks, and Benner shook the dwarf's hand gratefully.
Within a week the trio departed on their tour. A man whom Bill could trust was left in charge of his farm, and a note was sent to Lizzī by her laconic correspondent:
"Lizzī: Bill, Benner and me is gon' consertin'.
Hunch."
CHAPTER XV.
THE BROTHERS LEARN SOMETHING ABOUT GILL.
The McAnay brothers went direct to the town where Gill had said his mother lived. There they learned that he had not been seen in the village since his mother died.
"How long ago was that?" Levi asked their informant.
"'Bout five year."
"Five years? You must be mistaken."
Levi was staggered by the realization of the cruelty of Gill's plot against his sister, while Matthi and Cassi ground their teeth and clenched their hands.