When they arrived at the house they found that Pepper and Andy had brought in some wood and started a cheerful blaze in the big fireplace of the living-room.
"It was so cold we couldn't stand it," said Pepper.

"I don't think Mr.
Ford will mind." The constable and the other newcomers inspected the damage done to the safe with interest, and walked through the rooms of the house.

The cadets showed them just how the thief had made his escape, and Jed Plodders and two of the men went off to see if they could trail the evil-doer.
"I think at least one of us ought to stay here until Mr.Ford comes," said Pepper.
"Supposing you and I stay ?" suggested Andy.

"Fred and Jack can take the iceboat back to the Hall and explain matters to Captain Putnam." This was agreed to, and a little later the _Skimmer_ was on the way to the school.

It was now after eight o'clock and the cadets were hungry.
Andy and Pepper were to have their meals sent to them from the Fasick farmhouse.
Tying up at the boathouse landing, Jack and Fred hurried into the Hall.
As they passed one of the classrooms they came face to face with Reff Ritter.
"Got back late, didn't you ?" said the bully to Fred.
"Yes," was the short reply.
The bully passed on without another word.
Jack was in a quandary.