by the authorities," said Dick, who felt he must take charge of affairs.
"That's the talk!" cried Tom, "and the sooner we get at it the better."
"Let us find out where that side road leads to," added Sam, "I mean the road on which we heard the auto."
Inside of an hour various messages had been sent by telephone and telegraph. It was now growing late and the Rovers hardly knew what to do next. From their uncle the boys got the whole tale concerning the bonds, but the new light shed on the subject did not help matters.
They also told the authorities about the cave and the boxes stored there, and some men were at once sent off to investigate and take possession of whatever could be found.
"I think some of us ought to go home," said Sam. "Aunt Martha won't go to bed until we get back, and she will be greatly worried."
It was finally decided that Tom and Dick should remain at the Carwell hotel over night and Sam and his uncle should go home in the buggy. The team was put up at the hotel barn, and then all hands went to the dining room for a late supper.
"Tm as hungry as two bears," announced Tom.
"Well, I shan't say no to a good feed," answered Sam.
