ut. I went along apiece to look at it and I think I know who
it belongs to--that there new Eyetalian hash-house feller in Guilford.
Only one car there like it and that's his'n. You was askin' about him
bein' in Guilford."

"Yes. We know him and he knows us. He could have found out you were
taking us home and then have seen your car here and waited."

"You mean follered you? What'd he want to do----?"

"Is he still in his car?" interrupted Bill.

"I reckon so; think I saw four fellers in it. They can keep warm there
and every now and then run their engine a bit to keep her from freezin'
up."

"They'll be drifted in, won't they?"

"Reckon not, with a big car like that; and the storm's goin' to quit."

"But that won't let us go on to-night. And what is that Italian up to?"
Bill dismissed the subject with Merritt, but resolved to tell Gus,
though not Tony, as it would put a damper on their friend's peace of
mind. What harm could come of Malatesta's being here? He could not
approach the house without alarming the Farrell dog and that was
assurance enough. And Bill could not help being doubtful as to the
Sicilian's being really dangerous. There might be such a thing as
carrying this grudge business to extremes, but hardly here and in this
storm.

Bill and Gus spent the night in the best spare room, under the heavy
covers of an immense fourposter. They slept through the cold night like
inanimate objects. Tony, alone, occupied a room which had evidently been
that of an only son who had gone away to the Great War to remain away
forever. There was crape hanging over the frame of a picture showing a
sturdy, manly looking fellow in khaki. From the appearance of things,
Tony, also, should have passed a comfortable night. Merritt was tucked
away to his entire satisfaction.

CHAPTER XVII

KIDNAPED

In the morning Bill and Gus were up at daylight, as was their habit. The
storm had ceased, and it was turning warm, the snow melting already. The
boys went to the barn to help with the milking; they got in some wood
and performed other chores. Mr. Farrell, coming in, declared with his
hearty laugh that they could stay as long as they might wish to, for
they had certainly more than earned their food and lodging. As they went
in to the breakfast table he said.

"Mother, better give that other young fellow his money back. Where is
he, anyway? Not down yet?"