us to meet either of the Fox brothers."

The farmer brightened up.

"He's the man I'm after, then."

A bargain was struck between Luke and Ezekiel Mason, whereby the
farmer promised to pay him five dollars to accompany him home and
remain over night at the farm-house until he had disposed of the money
the way he intended.

Luke was glad to accept the proposal. It promised variety, and
possibly adventure. The farmer climbed into the buggy, and the Quaker
detective, following, took a seat by his side.

After they had driven some time they reached a part of the road where
for a clear mile in advance there was not a house or building of any
kind to be seen.

"This is the place I was most afraid of," said the farmer.

"Yes, it seems to be lonely. I wish one of the Fox brothers would
happen along."

"Why?" asked the farmer, in a tone of alarm.

"Because I would like to tackle him."

"Why are you so anxious to tackle him? I cannot understand."

"Then I'll tell you, my honest friend. There is a reward of a thousand
dollars offered for the capture of one of these famous outlaws, dead
or alive."

Ezekiel Mason shrugged his shoulders.

"I'd rather earn the money some other way!" he said.

"You are only a peaceful farmer, while I am a fighting Quaker,"
responded Luke.

As he spoke he looked up the road, and his glance fell upon a short,
compactly built man, in a gray suit, who was walking towards them. He
seemed a quiet, commonplace person, but there was something about him
that attracted Luke's attention.

"Do you know that man?" he asked abruptly.

"No," answered Mason, after a rapid glance.

"Are the Fox brothers tall men?" asked Luke.

"One only."

"The other?"

"Is about the size of the man who is approaching."

Luke did not reply, but examined still more critically the advancing
pedestrian.

"If this should be one of the Foxes," he began.

"Do you think it is?" asked the farmer in a terrified tone.

"I can't tell. If it proves to be, do exactly as I tell you."

"Yes," replied the farmer, now thoroughly alarmed.

By this time the new-comer was but twenty feet distant. Though his
appearance and dress were commonplace, his eyes, as they could see,
were dark and glittering.

He made a halt.

"Friends," he said, "can you oblige me with the time?"

The farmer was about to produce his big, old-fashioned, silver watch,
when Luke nudged him sharply.

"Leave him to me," he whispered, in a tone