will at least allow me to send you back in the auto. And you
will also accept the thanks of John Winthrop, and of Colonel Garwood,
whom I represent."

Both boys protested, with thanks, that they were able to get home
on their own feet. Mr. Winthrop, however, insisted on their going
in the car. Truth to tell, both youngsters had used their feet
so much that day that they did not object to being taken home.

"I hope you will find your man, sir, and alive," Dick called,
as he and Dave were leaving.

"I believe that we shall," replied Mr. Winthrop. "Yet it will
be by beginning the search from this point."

The chauffeur drove them home in good time, for he was under orders
to report back to Mr. Winthrop as speedily as possible.

Neither Dick nor Dave had any trouble in getting a late supper
served at home.

"You've brought home a good tale, as you often do, to pay your
mother for her extra trouble," laughed Mr. Prescott.

"I hope that poor, half-witted fellow didn't destroy himself in
his own fire," murmured Dick, as he fell to at the meal.

By morning the people of Gridley knew that the ruins of the abandoned
water-works cottage had been explored, and that the remains of
Amos Garwood had not been found there.