"Ginger; I wonder if that can be!" murmured Tim. "Say, Bobby—I wonder!"
One by one the chipped and dingy milestones were passed, and by late afternoon Wild Oak came into view. All heaved a great sigh of relief.
"I couldn't have stood it for another twenty-four hours," grinned Dick. "Who'd want to live in a hilly place like this, eh, Sam?"
The way led down the side of a steep slope, and rose again, looming up grimly in shadow, on the opposite side. Between great oak trees which lined the road glimpses of houses and whitewashed fences were seen; and, presently, Tom exclaimed:
"Hello, there's that building with a tower; what is it, Luke?"
"Wild Oak Hotel," answered Jarrett.
"Is there any other?"
"Nope!"
"Let's steer for it," advised Bob; "most likely Mr. Lovell went straight there."
"'Twon't do ye a bit o' good," said Luke; "it ain't open now; only ketches visitors as is daffy enough to come hyar durin' the summer."