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134 that they were going to start for Florida the next morning.

"Why, Dave?" asked Jessie. "Why are you going in such a hurry?"

"Oh, I hardly care to tell, Jessie," he answered. "It may prove only a wild goose chase."

"It is about the missing jewels?"

"Yes."

"Then you are after Merwell and Jasniff."

"Yes, but please don't tell any outsiders."

"Oh, Dave, don't get into any trouble!" cried the girl, as she clung to him. "They are such bad fellows I You know what they have done to you in the past!"

"I am not afraid of them."

"Oh, I know how brave you are, Dave I But—but don't let them harm you—for my sake, please!" And then the tears came into her eyes and she hid her face on his arm.

"There! there! don't worry!" he said, as he bent over her, and then he kissed her forehead. "We'll be back before long," and he gave her a little hug.

Then the others came in. Laura was also worried, but glad that her uncle would be along. She helped Dave to pack his suit-case. Phil and Roger also packed up, and sent word home regarding the proposed trip. As my old readers know, all the boys were well-to-do, so the expenses did not bother them.