In due time Mr. Ford arrived at the camp, a very much surprised but
pleased lawyer indeed. He had a consultation with Paddy, who confirmed
all he had said and furnished the address of a companion who was
present when the proper survey was made.

Mr. Ford then made his plans, but, as he needed the help of Paddy in
carrying them out, it was decided to postpone action until the lumberman
could get around--on crutches, at least.

Mr. Ford stayed a day or so in camp with his daughter and her friends,
going about to look at the various boundaries, and arranging certain
details with Ted Franklin. He was entertained by the young people, and
seemed to enjoy himself.

He did not go near the strip in dispute, however, preferring to wait
until he was ready with his plans. Paddy was slowly getting better, and
Mr. Ford went back to Deepdale, to look after matters there, arranging
to come back as soon as Paddy could limp around.

Meanwhile the young people made the most of their life in the great
wintry woods, for they were to return home for the Christmas holidays,
as school would open the first of the new year.

There were sleigh-rides, coasting, skating occasionally, and some more
ice boating, though, because of considerable snow, the latter sport was
rather curtailed.

Occasionally Mr. Blackford came out for a day or so, but he had no good
news regarding his missing sister. He had followed several clues
unsuccessfully.

"But somehow, in spite of all my disappointments, I feel that I will be
successful before long," he affirmed.

"We hope so," replied Amy, gently, and the others echoed her words.

Then came a day when Paddy could limp about. He was a happy man, and, in
answer to a telegram sent him with this news, Mr. Ford returned word
that he would come up and assist at the "last act in the lumber play,"
as Will called it.

Accompanied by a court officer, and with Allen Washburn as consulting
attorney, Grace's father reached the camp one evening.

"Do you think you can stand it to face Jallow to-morrow, Paddy?" he
asked.

"I'm sure I can. I'm thinkin' he won't face me, though."

"Maybe not. We'll see. Well, we'll go over and take possession of the
disputed strip in the morning."

The court officer and Allen nodded.

"May we come along, Daddy, and see the fun?" asked Grace.

"Well," replied her father, "I don't know as there will be much fun,
but--yes, you may be there."

CHAPTER XXIV

THE LYNX