ough the woods. Even trees that were in the
way could not stop him with impunity, as he had proven when he collided
with that crooked one.

This made Elmer's job still easier. And as he advanced farther into the
woods he marveled first at the rashness of Landy in wandering so far
away; and second at the ability he displayed in getting safely back to
the shore of the pond.

Elmer was keeping one eye out ahead as he moved along. Of course he
anticipated coming upon the concealed shack at any moment now. When he
saw an unusually large cluster of high bushes and undergrowth he felt
positive that he must be almost in touch with the place.

What kind of reception might they expect? If these men, whom none of
them had as yet even seen, turned out to be rascals who were hiding from
justice, and who suspected them of being a posse sent out to round up
the tramp thieves, their manner of greeting might prove to be anything
but friendly.

Could they have one or more fierce dogs among them? Elmer had not seen
the first trace of a dog anywhere around, but this could hardly be
accepted as positive evidence that there were none.

Frequently such men make it a point to possess canine companions. And
these are invariably of some species fond of the spirit of battle.

It was partly the expectation of running across such four-footed enemies
that had influenced Elmer to have the boys arm themselves with clubs. He
knew what a power for good a stout cudgel may prove under such
conditions.

Looking closely he had to confess that he could see no sign of life
about that clump of bushes.

And yet the trail led directly from it; and as if to sweep away his last
remaining doubt he now discovered a second series of fresh tracks
leading straight _toward_ the spot.

Besides, here was a regular path, beaten down by many feet, and which
headed in the quarter Elmer knew the big pond lay.

That settled it.

Elmer waited for the balance of the troop to come up. Everyone's gaze
was fastened on him. Eyes flashed more brightly than usual, and some of
the boys naturally showed their nervousness by the way they kept their
cudgels moving.

"Is that the place, Landy, where you saw the shack?" he demanded.

Landy had known it was for more than a full minute past, but he
remembered that a scout on duty must wait to be asked before
volunteering any information.

"Yes, sir," he replied, "that is the place."

"Spread out a little, fellows," said El