descended the porch and passed around the side

of the house toward the shed in search of a spade. As he came in sight of the apple tree in the next yard he glanced inquiringly toward the platform. It was, however, empty.

"I wonder," muttered Gordon, "where Fudge is keeping himself. I haven't seen him around for almost a week."

Could he have caught sight of his neighbor at that moment he would probably have been somewhat surprised.