Bob had his eyes to the field-glass. The thread-like line of smoke became a whirling column, apparently close at hand. In eager expectancy, he kept the instrument directed close around it, uttering an exclamation as a hoped-for event actually occurred.
A boy was seen moving about at the edge of the timber.
Presently he came out into the open, looking so clear and distinct that something strangely familiar in his appearance made Bob draw a long, deep breath.
"Goodness gracious!"
"Now what?" cried Jack, impatiently. "These—"
Perceiving that Bob had extended the glass toward him, he stopped suddenly and seized it.
"By all that's wonderful!"
In the field of view Jack saw a short, stocky figure, easily recognizable. Then:
"Pete Colliver!" fell from his lips.