"Tell me what you know about the destruction of the 'Rambler,'" he said, sharply.
[CHAPTER XVIII]
THE NIMRODS IN TROUBLE
During the afternoon, Bob Somers and his companions strolled around town. They paid the "Nimrod" a visit, in the expectation of seeing the Trailers, but, of course, the latter failed to put in appearance. The evening was spent at a small theatre.
The Ramblers had scarcely finished breakfast on the following morning, when a tall, slightly built gentleman walked briskly up to the Badger State Hotel. He was neatly attired in black, and had a generally prosperous appearance.
"Mr. Wingate!" exclaimed Bob, in surprise.
"I'm glad to see you, Robert," said Mr. Parsons Wingate, holding out his hand, and nodding to the others. "No doubt my visit is unexpected," he continued, with a smile, as he accepted the proffered chair.
"It seems that both the Rambler and Nimrod Clubs have been experiencing some lively times," he went on. "I'm sure you will understand how much I sympathize with you in the loss of your boat. It must have been a dreadful shock."
The Ramblers were intensely curious to know what object could have brought Mr. Parsons Wingate not only to town, but to see them.