Only a few moments had passed when Mr.Ross' voice was heard from the clearing: "_Thieves_! The rib roast is gone---so is the marrow!" Dick glanced swiftly at his chums.

The same idea was in the minds of all the members of Dick & Co.
"Our friend, the prowler, has been here," muttered Prescott, rising hastily.

"This thing has got to be stopped.

Come along, fellows! Friends, please excuse us for a few moments." At a dog trot Dick led the way to the clearing.

There stood Mr.
Ross, looking the picture of indignation.
"I didn't know there were tramps in these woods," muttered the cattle owner.
"Tramp, thief, or whatever he is," exclaimed Dick Prescott, "that fellow must move on out of this part of the country.