From what Bradley had said, it was not likely that he, Bradley, had
been permitted to associate with the actual custodians of the stolen
lad. This had been the main source of his complaints.
Ned believed that a portion, at least, of the men sent into the hills
as custodians of the prince had followed Jack and Jimmie out While
trembling for the safety of the two boys, Ned had figured on cutting
the force of the enemy in two before making an attempt to seize the
little prisoner.
Even now, he figured, the force left on the ground had been again
divided, for he was positive that the camp was being watched. For
this reason he had caused the packing to be done, thus giving the
impression that his party was going out at once.
The boy lay in the dark spot under the boulder for a long time,
watching, listening, for some indication of human life in that
vicinity. He had a half notion that Bradley would head that way, and
that the boys would follow him.
"If Bradley does come here," Ned thought, "my trap will be set right!
That is, if the dusky little chap from over the sea has not been
taken away. If he has, the trap will not serve; still, I shall be
able to console myself with the thought that it was at least well
set!"
Every clue the boy had gained pointed to the spot where he lay.
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