said—there would be a small fortune in it for us if we got 'em. He says he's got some papers—or a map I guess it is—but he wants these papers, too. He didn't dare show himself around here—you know the reason why."
"Sure those Rovers would recognize him, even if he tried to disguise himself."
Dick, Tom and Sam listened to this conversation with keenest interest and amazement. These men had mentioned the name of Sid Merrick, the rascal who had in the past tried so hard to harm them and who had up to the present time escaped the clutches of the law. Evidently they were in league with Merrick and under his directions.
"We must capture those fellows by all means," whispered Tom, excitedly. "If we do, maybe we can find out where Merrick is."
"Yes, and Tad Sobber, too," added Sam, who had not forgotten the poisonous snake episode at Putnam Hall.
"They weren't after chickens—that was only a blind," said Dick. "They want to get something from the house—some papers that Merrick wants."
"They must be valuable," said Sam.
"Father has all sorts of valuable papers," went on Tom. "Bonds, deeds to mining properties,
