"Don't you think we can do it, with the sticks and pistols ?" "We might, Tom,--but it would be a big risk.

Those fellows are desperate, Sobber especially, and they must be armed, too.

There is no use of our getting shot if it can be avoided." With extreme caution the three boys walked around the old mansion.

In one of the upper rooms, the curtains of which had been drawn, they could make out several forms moving about.
"There, I think that was Nellie!" cried Tom, as a shadow appeared on the curtain.
"And there is that woman!" added Sam, as another form appeared and vanished.
"I'd like to know if Dora is there," murmured Dick.
They waited for a minute and saw several shadows pass and repass the curtain.

They were sure Nellie was there but were not so certain about her cousin.