We are law-abiding people, but
our mountains constitute a secure refuge for some who are not worthy
of protection."
Ned was more than pleased at the outcome of the matter, for he was
sure the old lady would take pains to set the matter before her
friends in the correct light. The conversation soon changed to other
subjects. The child did not return, and directly Frank saw him
walking along a distant hillside, hand-in-hand with Bradley.
"Mr. Bradley seems to stick close to Mike," he said, tentatively.
"Never lets him out of his sight," was the reply, and Mrs. Brady
seemed to resent the face as stated. She evidently had little of the
lad's companionship.
When the boys reached the camp Jimmie had not returned, but their
chums were gathered around a sheet of letter paper which had, no one
knew how, been thrust into the tent. Jack's face was deadly white as
he handed it to Ned.
"We are up against a black hand game," he said. "Jimmie has been
stolen!"
CHAPTER XIII
THREE DAYS TO MOVE IN
Ned took the paper into his hand and read:
"You boys are not wanted in the hills. We give you three days to get
out. On the morning of the fourth day, if you are still here, we
shall send you your friend's right hand.
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