Comprehension

TWO DESPERATE MEN

O Henry wrote " The Ransom of Red chief in 1910 TThe story follows two kidnappers who steal Johnay. the son of a rich man. The son, called Red chief by the kidnappers, is a red headed, devilish brat. He makes life miserable for the two criminals. Below is the ransom demand sent to Red chief's father Ebenezer Dorset, We have your boy concealed in a place far from the summit. It is useless for you or the most skillful detectives to attempt to find him. Absolutely, the only terms on which you can have him restored to you are these : we demand fifteen hundred dollars in large bills for his return ; the money to be left at midnight tonight at the same spot and in the same box as your reply - as here in after described. If you agree to these tems , send your answer in writing by a solitary messenger tonight at half - past eight o' clock. After crossing Owl creck, on the road to the popular cave, there are three large trees about a hundred years apart ,close to the fence of the wheat field on the right - hand side. At the bottom of the fence post, opposite the third tree, will be found a small pasteboard box. The messenger will place the answer in this box and return immediately to the summit If you attempt any treachery or fail to comply with our demand as stated, you will never see your boy again. If you pay the money as demanded, he will be returned to you safe and well within three hours

Questions

1.Where and when the father / rich man left his reply for the kidnappers ?

2. Why were the kidnappers called Desperate ?