Eventually it became a game of skill between the Hider and the seeker.
"Reminiscences of a South African Pioneer"
W. C. Scully
Nay, I knew well that there was more in the matter, and had you paid me another fee and bade me to continue to use my wisdom, without doubt I should have found this magic stuff hidden in the hut, and mayhap have learned the name of the Hider.
"Child of Storm"
H. Rider Haggard
"Now, whichever seeker finds whichever Hider, they'll go in pairs to the ball, don't you see?
"Patty's Social Season"
Carolyn Wells