The result of the game had been telephoned to Oakdale, and the boys were welcomed with cheers as the buckboard rolled up the main street toward Hyde’s livery stable. At the stable they piled out with their bats and bags, shivering a little from the raw cold of the spring evening, which had crept into their bones in spite of overcoats. At the door of the stable Osgood paused a moment, and, Springer, Hooker and Cooper joining him, he was heard to say: “See you later, fellows. Don’t forget. So long. I’m hungry as a bear, and I won’t do a thing to Mrs. Chester’s grub to-night.” Carrying the bag that contained his uniform and mitt, he swung off with a vigorous, buoyant stride, whistling cheerfully. A few low words passed between the trio left behind, after which they dispersed in starting for their various homes. Jack Nelson was not the only one to perceive something mysterious in the action of these fellows; Sleuth Piper’s eyes and ears were wide open. When Shultz had likewise departed Nelson spoke to Grant. “I don’t suppose it’s any of my business, but I’d really like to know what’s in the wind. Those fellows are up to something.” “I reckon so,” nodded Rodney; “but I opine it’s no concern of mine.” Both were startled as Piper noiselessly appeared beside them. “There are things going on in this town,” said Sleuth, his voice discreetly lowered, “of which the general public is wholly unaware.” “Hello!” laughed Rodney, lifting his eyebrows. “The great detective is on the job. I judge you have inside information, Pipe?” “Very little,” answered Sleuth; “but if I set out to get it I’ll not be balked. Once I take up a case worthy of my attention, I am relentless as Fate.” “Do you have an idea this matter is a case worthy of your attention?” asked Nelson, winking slyly at Grant. “That I can’t answer,” confessed Sleuth; “but it’s my theory that persons whose movements are secretive and mysterious deserve to be watched. Possibly I can tell you one little fact of which you are unaware.” “Let flicker,” invited Jack. “We’re listening, all agog.” “For some little time,” said Sleuth, in answer to this invitation, “certain fellows have been meeting regularly every Saturday night in the rooms of Ned Osgood.” “Is that all?” exclaimed Grant, disappointed. “Why, I suppose, as Osgood happens to be such a popular chap, they merely drop in on him for a social call.” “Is there any reason why a fellow who is merely making a social call should shroud his movements in secrecy?” questioned Sleuth instantly. “If you were going to drop round to see Osgood for a little pleasant chat of a Saturday evening would you take pains to prevent the fact from becoming known? Or would you, if meeting a friend on your way, openly and frankly tell him where you were going?” “I don’t opine I’d be covering up my tracks any whatever.”