Well, I shall not intrude upon him until you have paved the way. Let me keep with you. When you get near his home go on ahead and report just how matters stand. If he cares to see me, I shall be glad. If he don't, there's an end to it."
"That's satisfactory," assented Van heartily. "I guess he will be willing to see you."
"I hope so, Van."
"And if he does, I know you will be glad he did," declared Van convincedly.
"Do you intend to start for his place to-night?" inquired Ralph.
"I think we might. I feel fresh as a lark, and it's a beautiful night. If we get tired we can stop for a rest, and cover the journey by daybreak."
"By daybreak?" repeated Ralph. "Why, it's an easy four hours' jaunt."
"Is it? " smiled Van. "I guess not."
"Only twenty miles?"
"Yes, but such twenty miles! Why, it's a jungle half the distance."
"Isn't there a road?"
"Not a sign of one. The gig will make it on the cut-around, and that means a good forty miles."
"I see. Very well, Van, I am at your orders," announced Ralph.
He thought it best to secure some more pro-
