Someone had the idea that possibly he had gone to Dobbinsville or Ridgetown, but searchers sent to these places reported that he had not been seen at either place for several days.

Preacher Bonds consoled Mrs.Gramps with the suggestion that doubtless he would show up before night.

However, when night came with no signs of Deacon Gramps the whole community took an attitude of real alarm as to the likelihood that he had been burned to death.

It was announced that there would be no meeting services at Mount Olivet Church, and Jake Benton dismissed his services and joined heartily in the search for the Deacon, who had dealt him so many grievous blows while Mrs.Benton did everything in her power to console Mrs.Gramps.
The search continued all through the night with no results.

By early Monday morning there was general excitement for miles around.