Ms. Springer lowered her voice to a mere whisper. “We have found strange
hoof prints around the grounds that could only belong to…the Jersey Devil.”
“I just don’t know why he would want to steal from his own state,” Jamal said, shaking his head.
“I’d rather not find out,” Chelsea said in a shaky voice.
Ms. Springer punched in a code and opened the vault. The group froze. The room was empty and the seeds were gone.
“Oh no!” gasped Ms. Springer. “He did it!” Her eyes began to tear up as she realized one of New Jersey’s most cherished treasures had disappeared.
“Let’s split up and try to find some clues,” said Gabby, instantly taking charge. As the oldest of several siblings she was used to giving helpful directions.
“Don’t worry, Ms. Springer. The Trackers are on the trail.” said Mr. C as the team dispersed.
After scouring every inch of the museum Simon called out at the top of his lungs, “Guys, guys! I found a map of New Jersey.” The Trackers gathered around Simon.
“Do you see any markings?” Gabby asked. “Perhaps he is trying to find his way home?”
“Wait, look!” cried Chelsea excitedly. “The northwest corner of the map is torn off! That’s where the Sterling Hill mines are! I’ve always wanted to go there.”
“Did you find the map right here?” asked Mr. C. “Maybe it was just ripped.”
After the team glanced around to see if there were any pieces of map left on the floor and found nothing, they realized the Jersey Devil was heading to the Sterling Hill Mines with the seeds. Why did he steal the seeds? Why was he heading to the mines? The Trackers didn’t have a clue. All they knew was that they were about to begin an adventure to find out.
