However, when I find Winn he will of course be able to put me on the right track, and the subsequent recovery of the raft will prove an easy matter.
"If you have any news, send it to me at this place, where I shall remain until I hear from you.
"Love to Elta.

Tell her that last evening I ran across the queerest craft I ever saw, with the queerest name I ever heard of.

It is called the _Whatnot_.

Of course its Captain knew nothing of Winn, and I did not expect he would; but I make it my business to inquire of every one I meet or pass.
"Hoping to be able to send you better news within a day or two, I am your loving brother, "WILLIAM." As this letter reached Caspar's Mill in the same mail with those from Winn and the owner of the _Whatnot_, who, in writing to the Major, had used his old army name, and signed himself "Respectfully yours, Cap'n Cod," it may easily be imagined that Billy Brackett's perplexity was as nothing compared to that of his sister.

What could it all mean?
Winn was alive and well; his letter brought that comfort.