They finally came in sight of a farmhouse that sat on the side of a hill. Near the house was a stable and sheds. A large orchard lay back of the sheds.
"There," said Blossom. "That is where old Baldwin lives, and his turks are in one of those sheds."
"Crumping jickets--I mean jumping crickets!" exclaimed Harry. "How bright the moon shines! If he's on the watch we can't get anywhere near those sheds without being seen."
The boys began to realize that they were engaged in a decidedly perilous adventure. If one of them should be caught it would mean almost certain expulsion from college, besides a heavy fine if the case were carried to court.
"We'll have to approach by way of the orchard," said Frank. "Does Baldwin keep a dog?"
"That's nice. We are liable to find plenty of fun here. Every man must provide himself with a stout and heavy club to use on that dog in case of emergency. That is important. The lights are out, and it looks as if the farmer and his family were sleeping soundly, but, as Jones says, appearances are sometimes deceptive. We'll have to take our chances. Three of us will go through the orchard. The other two must get near the house in front and be ready to create a diversion in case we are discovered. Harry, you and Bandy take the front. You are both good runners. If Mr. Baldwin and his dog get after us, attract his attention in some manner."
"Jupiter! I wish I had brought a gun for that dog! Bandy, you are liable to have to use those crooked legs of yours in a decidedly lively manner before the night is over."
When everything was arranged Harry and Bandy advanced along the road, going forward slowly, while Frank, Blossom and Little made a detour and came into the orchard.
The hearts of the boys were in their throats, and still there was something about the adventure that filled them with the keenest delight.
Each one had secured a club, and they were ready to give the dog a warm reception if he came for them.
Little watched beneath a tree, while Merriwell and Blossom slipped up to one of the sheds which had a favorable look.
In the meantime Rattleton and Robinson had got near the front of the house and were hiding in a ditch, waiting and listening.
"I am surprised that Merriwell should agree to take a hand in this," whispered Harry. "He is a queer chap--has scruples about doing certain things. I thought he would object to hooking out a turk."