I had locked up the mill securely, and hung out the slate for any orders that might come in. Then we started down the lake shore, keeping our eyes wide open for anything unusual that might present itself. “They are a sly crowd,” remarked Ford as we hurried along. “It is my opinion that the three had this matter planned out before your uncle ever came to the Bend.” “It would seem so,” I returned. “But I don’t understand it. Mr. Norton came as soon as he could after my father’s death.” “Maybe he had something to do with your father’s death,” suggested my helper. “A man who would try to burn up a boy wouldn’t stop at anything.” I shuddered. The idea was so horrible I could not reply. We skirted the cove where the stranger’s boat had been tied up several days before. Here, as I have said, the bushes were heavy, and any craft could be well hidden. “I would like to know what they have done with my old boat,” I said, as we peered right and left. “She wasn’t worth much, but she would be mighty handy just now.” “That’s true,” replied Ford. Then he gave a sudden start, plunged ahead, and disappeared around some rocks. “Hi! what are you doing way in there?” I cried. He did not reply, and I went after him. Suddenly he returned, and laying his hand on my shoulder, cautioned me to silence. “What is it?” I whispered. He shook his head to indicate he was not sure. Then as silently as possible we picked our way through the bushes that lined the inlet. We passed on fully fifty feet, and then Ford stopped and pointed ahead. “I don’t see anything.” “Look over to your left, Rube.” “Beyond the blackberry bushes?” “Yes.” I looked, and saw a boat hidden behind some trees. It was a strange looking craft, and I was for the moment disappointed to think that it was not the mill boat or the Catch Me. “Whose boat?” I whispered. “It is Andy Carney’s,” answered Ford. “Keep quiet until we find out if he is anywhere around.” CHAPTER XX. WE MAKE A PRISONER. I was astonished by Ford’s words and came very near uttering a sudden cry; but my helper pressed his hand over my mouth, thus effectually preventing any sound from coming forth. “Carney may be around,” he went on softly; “and if so we must try to capture him.” I nodded; and then we continued our way towards the boat. I had brought the gun with me, and now I examined it to see if it was in condition for immediate use. I was aware of the desperate character of the man with whom we had to deal, and I did not intend to run any more chances than were necessary. Presently we heard a noise to the left, and Carney appeared. He carried a pail of spring water, and with this went on board his boat. “We’ve got him,” whispered Ford. “Stand by to shoot if necessary, or else give me the gun.” “I’ll take care of the gun. Let us creep up and surprise him.”