Hunting for Hidden Gold · Chapter
X: On Guard explained
The Hardy boys, having returned to Chicago, take precautions to avoid detection by Hopkins and his gang.
What happens
The Hardy boys, having returned to Chicago, take precautions to avoid detection by Hopkins and his gang. They disguise themselves with spectacles and books, board their train separately, and successfully evade a lookout. During a stop in the mountains, Frank overhears two men discussing their search for the boys, confirming that their disguise has worked. The chapter ends as they finally arrive in Lucky Bottom.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Disguise
The boys use spectacles and separate boarding to disguise themselves and evade the gang's lookout.
Perseverance and Determination
Despite delays and threats, the boys remain focused on reaching their father and continuing their mission.
Characters to notice
- Frank Hardy
Frank suggests the disguise of spectacles and boards the train separately. He overhears the two men discussing the search for the Hardy boys.
- Joe Hardy
Joe agrees to the disguise plan, buys plain-rimmed spectacles, and stays reading on the train while Frank walks the platform.
- Fenton Hardy
Mentioned as the boys' father who summoned them to Montana and may have been hurt by enemies.
- Mr. Hopkins
Referred to as the mysterious figure who likely alerted the gang to watch for the boys in Chicago and along the route.
Key passages
““I think,” said Frank, “that the very simplest way for us to disguise ourselves would be to wear spectacles. If they chance to be looking for us they’ll never think of looking for two boys wearing glasses.””
Frank suggests that wearing glasses is the easiest disguise because no one would suspect two boys with glasses.
Frank proposes the key disguise strategy for the chapter.
““This here is the only way they can get to Lucky Bottom. If they did manage to sneak out of Chicago we’d be sure to see ’em goin’ through here.””
The bearded man states that the train route is the only way to reach Lucky Bottom, so they would have spotted the boys if they had left Chicago.
The gang members discuss their surveillance along the route to Lucky Bottom.