"Why, they--aren't they--they'll be here in a few minutes," stuttered
Uncle John.

"Where are they?" demanded the two anxious mothers in a single voice.

"Now hold on here," said Uncle John, regaining his composure with an
effort. "I'll explain. Hal and Chester are all right. They'll be here in
a few minutes."

"And what on earth is the matter with you, John?" asked Mrs. Crawford
in surprise.

"What's the matter with me?"

"Yes. Your collar is half off, your clothes are dirty and there is blood
on your shoe. What is the matter?"

"Well, nothing much," replied Uncle John in great confusion, "you see, I
had--I had a--"

"And were Hal and Chester with you?" asked Mrs. Paine.

"Yes, that is no. I mean--" stuttered Uncle John.

"Come now, John, no fibbing," said Mrs. Crawford. "You were in trouble,
and Hal and Chester were with you. Where are they now?"

"Well, to tell the truth, I don't know where they are," said Uncle John.
"I supposed they would be here by this time."