Ed and Jack had now reached the beginning of the sidewalk leading into town. They noticed a torn envelope lying on the flags. It was, as they could see, addressed to Sidney Wilcox, and in one corner was the imprint of an auto firm, which made the style of car that Sid drove. The fishermen smiled at each other, but made no remark. Perhaps the envelope had contained a bill. "I may take a spin out on the road this afternoon," said Jack at parting. "Cora and the twins are going out, and we have promised to trail along after them." "We?" questioned Ed. "Yes. Walter and I, of course." "Oh, of course--Walter." "Jealous!" called Jack. "But cheer up. Perhaps we shall meet' you, and you'll have a chance." "Oh, I'll be too busy with the cash, I'm afraid. But, at any rate, give my regards to your sister." "Surest thing you know. How about the twins?" "Well--er--never mind." "All right. Say, Ed, come over to dinner some night. I want mother to meet you." "All right, I will." Ed turned away. He seemed unusually thoughtful. Was it Jack's remark about carrying so much money, unprotected, along the highway that caused it? It was a large sum--twenty thousand dollars. But he was strong enough to take care of himself. Besides, he would have his revolver with him. He decided on this, though at first it had not occurred to him. Then he laughed aloud at his worriment and his prospective precautions. Who ever heard of any one being robbed on the road from Chelton to New City? CHAPTER Y AN IMPROMPTU RACE "All ready!" It was Cora who spoke. She and her chums, the Robinson twins, and a fourth girl, were about to start out for the afternoon run Jack had mentioned. The fourth girl was Mary Downs, a little millinery model and helper, to whom Cora had promised a ride in the new car. It was Mary's initial spin, and, as Cora cranked up, the young girl, with the queer, deep-set eyes, and the long, oval face so dear to the hearts of model-hunters, fairly quivered with anticipation. "Are you all right, Mary?" asked Cora with a reassuring smile. "Oh, yes," replied the girl with a happy little laugh. "This is--just glorious!" "Wait just a minute," begged Bess. "I want to tie my hat on more securely. I do hope we get our auto bonnets soon." "Madam said they would be finished to-day," remarked Mary. "They are very pretty, I think." Madam Julia was Mary's employer. "Chug! chug!" sounded from the motor as it speeded up, momentarily, drowning all conversation. Then, as Cora climbed in and adjusted the throttle and shifted the spark lever, she let in the clutch, and the car rolled gently away. "Where were the boys to meet us?" asked Belle.