I have been down the line, and have just arrived at
Stanley Junction. My name is Grant, Robert Grant, and I am the
president of the Great Northern Railroad."

"Come in, sir," said Ralph cordially, deeply impressed with welcoming
so important a visitor, but maintaining his usual manly pose. He
showed the official into the house and introduced him to his mother.

Mr. Grant was soon in the midst of his story. He had been for many
hours at Dover trying to discover a trace of his missing nephew, and
had signally failed.

"Mr. Adair, the road detective, advised me to see you," said Mr.
Grant, "for you saw the men who captured my nephew. Would you know
them again?"

"Some of them," responded Ralph.

"Very well, then. I ask you as a special favor to return with me to
Dover and assist me in my task."

"I will do so gladly," said Ralph.

One hour later a special conveyed the president of the Great Northern
and Ralph Fairbanks down the line to Dover.

CHAPTER XIII

THE SHORT LINE RAILWAY

Ralph attracted a good deal of attention when he arrived at Dover, and
fully realized the honor of being treated as a companion by the
president of the great railroad of which he was an employe. Mr. Grant
was pleasant and friendly. He learned Ralph's story, and discussed
railroad experience in a way that was enlightening and encouraging to
the young fireman.

"About these kidnappers," he said, "I will never give them a dollar,
but I will spend all I have to rescue my nephew. It is needless to say
that you shall be richly rewarded if you assist me successfully."

"I will do my best, sir," pledged Ralph.

At Dover they were met by Adair. They went into the depot and sat down
on a bench in a remote corner.

"I have not discovered the kidnappers nor the faintest clew to them,
Mr. Grant," said Adair.

The railroad president sighed deeply. He showed in his face and
manner the care and anxiety he was suffering.

"Can you suggest anything, Fairbanks?" continued Adair. "You know the
district fairly well. What is your idea about these men?"

Ralph astonished his companions by suddenly arising to his feet and
hurrying towards a boy who had just entered the depot and had taken up
a pen and a telegraph pad on the counter outside the ticket office.

It was Van Sherwin, the old-time friend of Ralph, and pleasure at
recognizing him had caused the young fireman to act on an impulse.

"Why, Van!" he cried, "I am glad to see you."