"It might at that, and still nobody need be in it," Tom suggested. "In an old, deserted place like this there are always doors to swing, windows to rattle, and shutters to slam."
"I suppose so," agreed Ned. "Well, shall we go in and have a look around?"
"I don't know that it will do us any good or that we can learn anything by going in this old mansion," was Tom's comment. "Yet as long as we're here we might as well go in. If we're going to stay here all night——"
"Stay here all night!" interrupted Ned, in surprise.
"I don't mean in there," and Tom pointed to the dark and silent mansion, "but in our own House. If we're going to camp out here it's just as well to know the character of our neighbor."
"Sure," assented Ned. "Well, come on in and let's get it over with. Then we'll eat. I'm hungry!"
"So am I. Got your flashlight?" and Tom produced one of these handy little portable torches.
"Never go without it when I'm traveling with you," chuckled Ned. "You always end up in some queer situation or other." This was true, as Tom knew from past experience, so he did not comment on it.
A look behind the young men showed them that the auto was where they had left it, the power shut off, the headlights glowing, and also some lights turned on showing the cozy interior.
"I'll sure be glad to get back in it," murmured Tom.