CHAPTER IX
A STRANGER IN TOWN
Dazed by the sudden ending to his chase, Frank remained a while standing
by the tree. He had half a mind to ignore the warning and keep on after
the man, but on second thought felt it would be an unwise thing to do.
"I must try another plan," the youth said to himself. "I will get at the
bottom of this mystery concerning me. I did not know Uncle Abner was
mixed up in it. I wonder if I had better ask him about it?"
Frank debated this question in his mind as he went back home. Then he
decided he would say nothing about what he had overheard until there was
a chance of learning more about it.
"Is that you, Frank?" his uncle asked him, as the boy went into the house
a few minutes later.
"Yes, uncle."
"Well, be sure you lock up well. There have been thieves about, I hear,
and we don't want 'em to get in here."
Frank wondered at his uncle's caution, for Mr. Dent was not
usually nervous. It was also news to Frank to learn that there were
thieves about.
"Have you seen any?" he asked his uncle.
"No, but Jim Peterson's hired man was over a while ago, and told me his
dogs had barked at some tramps passing in the road.
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