Jane's Adventure

"I don't remember any such car," was the invariable answer.

Time and time again they repeated their query, wording it always the same, except for lengthening the interval of time in which the car might have passed, for the afternoon was rapidly passing. In their circuit they had now reached the roads pointing to the southward.

"We'll try this one more garage," said Dean, as they approached a wayside shed bearing a large sign "Gasoline."

"I fear it is only wasting time," said Jane wearily.

"Don't you want the Hoffs caught?" snapped her companion.

"Of course I do," she retorted heatedly, "but I don't see you catching them."

"I believe you are half glad of it," snarled her escort as he brought the machine to a stop and repeated his usual question.

"Sure there was a car with two men in it like you describe passed here," the man replied to their amazement and delight. "They stopped here for gas, as they generally do. About three hours ago, I guess it musta been."

Dean shot a triumphant glance at Jane.

"An old man with a gray beard and a smooth-shaven young man driving--does that describe them?" he repeated.

"That's them," said the garage proprietor. "They come through here every few days, always about the same time."

"Where do they go?" questioned Dean eagerly, feeling at last that the scent was growing hot.

The man shook his head in a puzzled way.