CHAPTER XXVII

LOOKING FOR CLUES

Having sent their message to the Fords, the two cadets turned in the direction where the farmer had said the constable lived.

"I don't think old Plodders will be able to do a thing," said Jack. "He'll look wise and ask a lot of questions, and that's all."

A block had been covered when they saw the farmer and the constable approaching. On his breast Jed Plodders had pinned a bright, silver star, and he carried a policeman's club in his hand.

"There they are!" cried Isaac Fasick.

"Is them the cadets?" queried the guardian of the peace.

"That's two of 'em. The other two said they'd stay an' watch the house."

"Stop!" cried the constable, and pointed his club at the cadets.

"Are you Constable Plodders?" questioned Jack.

"That's who I be," was the stern reply. "Now then, out with it, young fellers. You broke into Mr. Ford's house, didn't you? Now, don't try to fool me, fer it won't wash! You broke into the house, and Mr. Fasick ketched you at it, didn't he?" And the constable cast what was meant for an eagle eye on Jack and then on Fred. He had made up his mind that he would surprise both of the boys into a confession.

The two cadets stared in wonder at the constable, and then a smile came into Jack's face. The situation was so ludicrous he felt like laughing. Jed Plodders saw the smile and frowned deeply.

"This ain't no laughing matter, you scamp!" he bellowed. "You broke into the Ford house an' tried to steal the silverware! Now don't try to deny it, or it will be the wuss fer you! You done it now, didn't you?" And he pointed his club at first one cadet and then the other.

Answer the following questions:
1. Where the message get sent?
2. Where are they going?
3. How far did they go before they found them?
4. Who had dressed themself as police?
5. Are they trying to get them to cease?
6. What are they accusing them of?
7. Who caught them?
8. Who was trying not to laugh?
9. What did they attempt to take?
10. What was he pointing at them?

Numbered answers:
1. to the Fords
2. in the direction where the farmer had said the constable lived
3. A block
4. Jed Plodders
5. Yes
6. breaking into Mr. Ford's house
7. Mr. Fasick
8. Jack
9. the silverware
10. his club