"I don't know that there is," replied Ventner.

"Can you imagine any reason for their wanting to linger about the
mine?" asked George.

"No," was the reply. "It has always been my opinion that the boys
left the mine because they feared arrest for some boyish offense
committed in some other part of the country, and that they are now far
away from this place."

Both lads observed that the detective seemed particularly pleased with
the statement that they proposed to abandon the search of the mine
immediately. Somehow, they caught the impression that they would
interfere with his plans if they remained.

"It might be well," Ventner said, directly, "to keep me posted as to
any discoveries you may make. We must work together, you know."

"Certainly," replied Will, speaking with a mental reservation which
did not include giving up of any information worth while.

"Well, then I'll be going," the detective said, strutting across the
room, with his little round belly protruding like that of an insect.
"You can always find me at the hotel down here, if I'm in this part of
the country. Just ask for me ask for me and I'll show up."

Canfield was turning to depart with the detective when Will motioned
him to remain. The caretaker turned back with a surprised look.