28531-h.htmThe Project Gutenberg eBook of The Banner Boy Scouts Snowbound, by GeorgeA. Warren

This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and withalmost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away orre-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License includedwith this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org

Title: The Banner Boy Scouts Snowbound

A Tour on Skates and Iceboats

Author: George A. Warren

Release Date: April 7, 2009 [eBook #28531]

Language: English

Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1

***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BANNER BOY SCOUTS SNOWBOUND***

E-text prepared by Roger Frank

and the Project Gutenberg Online Distributed Proofreading Team

(http://www.pgdp.net)

LOOK OUT! THE SECOND CAT! YELLED PAUL.The Banner Boy Scouts SnowboundPage 161

The Banner BoyScouts Snowbound

OR

A Tour on Skates and Iceboats

By GEORGE A. WARREN

AUTHOR OF THE BANNER BOY SCOUTS, THE

MUSKET BOYS OF OLD BOSTON, ETC.

ILLUSTRATED

THE SAALFIELD PUBLISHING CO.

AKRON, OHIONEW YORK Made in U. S. A.

Copyright, 1916, by

Cupples & Leon Company

CONTENTS

CHAPTERPAGEI.On the Frozen Bushkill1II.When the Old Ice-House Fell8III.The Rescue15IV.A Quick Return for Services Rendered23V.A Startling Interruption30VI.A Gloomy Prospect for Jud38VII.Paul Takes a Chance46VIII.Bobolink and the Storekeeper54IX.Fire!62X.The Accusation69XI.Friends of the Scouts76XII.The Iceboat Squadron84XIII.On the Way91XIV.The Ring of Steel Runners98XV.Tolly Tip and the Forest Cabin105XVI.The First Night Out112XVII.Tip-Ups for Pickerel119XVIII.The Helping Hand of a Scout126XIX.News of Big Game134XX.At the Beaver Pond141XXI.Setting the Flashlight Trap149XXII.Waylaid in the Timber157XXIII.The Blizzard165XXIV.The Duty of the Scout172XXV.Among the Snowdrifts180XXVI.Dug Out187XXVII.First Aid194XXVIII.More Startling News202XXIX.The Wild Dog Pack211XXX.A Change of Plans219XXXI.Good-Bye to Deer Head Lodge227XXXII.The Capture of the Hobo Yeggmen235XXXIII.Conclusion243

PREFACE

Dear Boys:

Once more it is my privilege to offer you a newvolume wherein I have endeavored to relate furtherinteresting adventures in which the membersof Stanhope Troop of Boy Scouts take part. Mostof my readers, I feel sure, remember Paul, Jud,Bobolink, Jack and many of the other characters,and will gladly greet them as old friends.

To such of you who may be making the acquaintanceof these manly young chaps for the first timeI can only say this. I trust your interest in theirvarious doings along the line of scoutcraft will bestrong enough to induce you to secure the previousvolumes in this series in order to learn at first handof the numerous achievements they have placedto their credit.

The boys comprising the original Red FoxPatrol won the beautiful banner they own in opencompetition with other rival organizations. Fromthat day, now far in the past, Stanhope Troop hasbeen known as the Banner Boy Scouts. Its possession.gn +1has always served as an inspiration to Pauland his many staunch comrades. Every time theysee its silken folds unfurled at the head of theirgrowing marching line they feel like renewing thevows to which they so willingly subscribed on firstjoining the organization.

Many of their number, too, are this day proudlywearing on their chests the medals they have wonthrough study, observation, service, thrift, or actsof heroism, such as saving human life at the riskof their own.

I trust that all my many young readers will enjoythe present volume fully as much as they didthose that have appeared before now. Hoping,then, to meet you all again before a great while inthe pages of another book; and with best wishesfor every lad who aspires to climb the ladder ofleadership in his home troop, believe me,

Cordially yours,

George A. Warren.

THE BANNER BOY SCOUTS SNOWBOUND

1

CHAPTER I

ON THE FROZEN BUSHKILL

Watch Jack cut his name in the ice, fellows!

I wish I could do the fancy stunts on skateshe manages to pull off. It makes me green withenvy to watch Jack Stormways do that trick.

Oh, shucks! whats the use of saying that, WallaceCarberry, when everybody knows your strongsuit is long-distance skating? The fact is both theCarberry twins are as much at home on the ice asI am when I get my knees under the supper table.

Thats kind of you to throw bouquets my way,Bobolink. But, boys, stop and think. Here itisonly four days now to Christmas, and thescouts havent made up their minds yet where tospend the glorious holidays.

Y-y-yes, and b-b-by the same token, this yearwere g-g-going to g-g-get a full three-weeks vacation2in the b-b-bargain, b-b-because they havet-t-to overhaul the f-f-furnaces.

Hold on there, Bluff Shipley! If you keep onfalling all over yourself like that youll have totake a whole week to rest up.

All the same, remarked the boy who answeredto the odd name of Bobolink, its hightime we scouts settled that important matter forgood.

The assistant scout-master, Paul Morrison,has called a meeting at headquarters for to-night,you understand, boys, said the fancy skater, whohad just cut the name of Paul Morrison in thesmooth, new ice of the Bushkill river.

We must arrange the programme then, observedBobolink, because it will take a couple ofdays to get everything ready for the trip, no matterwhere we go.

Huh! grunted another skater, I can certainlysee warm times ahead for the cook at yourhouse, Bobolink, provided youve still got thatferocious appetite to satisfy.

Oh! well, Tom Betts, laughed the other, Inotice that you seldom take a back seat when thegrub is being passed around. As for me Im proudof my stowage ability. A good appetite is oneof the greatest blessings a growing boy can have.

Pity the poor father though, chuckled Wallace3Carberry, because he has to pay the freight.

Just to go back to the important subject, saidBluff Shipley, who could speak as clearly as anyone when not excited, where do you think thescouts will hike to for their Christmas holidays?

Well, now, a winter camp on RattlesnakeMountain wouldnt be such a bad stunt, suggestedTom Betts, quickly.

For my part, remarked Bobolink, Id ratherlike to visit Lake Tokala again, and see whatCedar Island looks like in the grip of Jack Frost.The skating on that sheet of water must be great.

We certainly did have a royal good time therelast summer, admitted Jack, reflectively.

All the same, ventured Tom, I think I knowone scout who couldnt be coaxed or hired to campon Cedar Island again.

Meaning Curly Baxter, Bobolink went on tosay scornfully, who brazenly admits he believesin ghosts, and couldnt be convinced that the placewasnt haunted.

Curly wont be the only fellow to back out,suggested Jack. While we have a membershipof over thirty on the muster roll of StanhopeTroop, it isnt to be expected that more than halfof them will agree to make the outing with us.

Too much like hard work for some of theboys, asserted Tom.4

I know a number who say theyd like to bewith us, but their folks object to a winter camp,Wallace announced. So if we muster a bakersdozen we can call ourselves lucky.

Of course it must be a real snow and ice hikethis time, suggested Bluff.

To be sureand on skates at that! criedWallace, enthusiastically.

Oh! I hope theres a chance to use our iceboatstoo! sighed Tom Betts, who late that fallhad built a new flier, and never seemed weary ofsounding the praises of his as yet untried Speedaway.

Perhaps we maywho knows? remarkedJack, mysteriously.

The others, knowing that the speaker was thenearest and dearest chum of Paul Morrison, assistantscout-master of Stanhope Troop of BoyScouts, turned upon him eagerly on hearing thissuggestive remark.

You know something about the plans, Jack!

Sure he does, and he ought to give us a hintin the bargain!

Come, take pity on us, wont you, Jack?

But the object of all this pleading only shookhis head and smiled as he went on to say:

Im bound to secrecy, fellows, and youwouldnt have me break my word to our patrol5leader. Just hold your horses a little while longerand youll hear everything. Were going to talkit over to-night and settle the matter once for all.Now lets drop the subject. Heres a new wrinkleIm trying out.

With that Jack started to spin around on hisskates, and fairly dazzled his mates with the wonderfulability he displayed as a fancy skater.

While they are thus engaged a few words ofexplanation may not come in amiss.

Stanhope Troop consisted of three full patrols,with another almost completed. Though in theflood tide of success at the time we make theacquaintance of the boys in this volume there wereepisodes in the past history of the troop to whichthe older scouts often referred with mingledemotions of pride and wonder.

The present status of the troop had not beenmaintained without many struggles. Enviousrivals had tried to make the undertaking a failure,while doubting parents had in many cases to beshown that association with the scouts would bea thing of unequalled advantage to their boys.

Those who have read the previous books ofthis series have doubtless already formed a warmattachment for the members of the Red FoxPatrol and their friends, and will be greatlypleased to follow their fortunes again. For the6benefit of those who are making their acquaintancefor the first time it may be stated that besidesJack Stormways and the four boys who were withhim on the frozen Bushkill this December afternoon,the roster of the Red Fox Patrol countedthree other names.

These were Paul Morrison, the leader, theother Carberry twin, William by name, and a boywhom they called Nuthin, possibly because hisname chanced to be Albert Cypher.

As hinted at in the remarks that flew betweenthe skaters circling around, many of the membersof the troop had spent a rollicking vacationthe previous summer while aboard a couple ofmotor boats loaned to them by influential citizensof their home town. The strange adventures thathad befallen the scouts on this cruise throughwinding creeks and across several lakes have beengiven in the pages of the volume preceding thisbook, called The Banner Boy Scouts Afloat; Or,The Secret of Cedar Island.

Ever since their return from that cruise theboys had talked of little else; and upon learningthat the Christmas holidays would be lengthenedthis season the desire to take another tour hadseized upon them.

After Jack so summarily shut down upon thesubject no one ventured to plead with him any7longer. All knew that he felt bound in honor tokeep any secret he had been entrusted with by theassistant scout-masterfor Paul often had to actin place of Mr. Gordon, a young traveling salesman,who could not be with the boys as much ashe would have liked.

Jack had just finished cutting the new figure,and his admirers were starting to give vent totheir delight over his cleverness when suddenlythere came a strange roaring sound that thrilledevery one of them through and through. It wasas if the frozen river were breaking up in a springthaw. Some of the boys even suspected that therewas danger of being swallowed up in such a catastrophe,and had started to skate in a frenzy ofalarm for the shore when the voice of Bobolinkarose above the clamor.

Oh! look there, will you, fellows? he shouted,pointing a trembling finger up the river. The oldice-house has caved in, just as they feared it would.See the ice cakes sliding everywhere! And I sawmen and girls near there just five minutes ago.They may be caught under all that wreckage forall we know! Jack, what shall we do about it?

Come on, every one of you! roared JackStormways, as he set off at full speed. Thismeans work for the scouts! To the rescue, boys!Hurry! hurry!

8

CHAPTER II

WHEN THE OLD ICE-HOUSE FELL

Never before in the recollection of any Stanhopeboy had winter settled in so early as it hadthis year. They seldom counted on having theirfirst skate on the new ice before Christmas, andyet for two weeks now some of the most daringhad been tempting Providence by venturing onthe surface of the frozen Bushkill.

The ice company had built a new house thepreceding summer, though the old one was stillfairly well filled with a part of the previous seasonsgreat crop. Its sides had bulged out in asuspicious manner, so that many had predictedsome sort of catastrophe, but somehow the oldbuilding had weathered every gale, though itleaned to the south sadly. The company apparentlyhoped it would hold good until they had itemptied during the next summer, when they intendedto build another new structure on the spot.

As the five boys started to skate at utmostspeed up the river they heard a medley of sounds.9A panic had evidently struck such boys and girlsas were skimming over the smooth ice in protectedbayous near the ice-houses. Instead ofhurrying to the assistance of those who may havebeen caught in the fallen timbers of the wreckedbuilding they were for the most part fleeing fromthe scene, some of them shrieking with terror.

Several men who had been employed near bycould be seen standing and staring. It looked asthough they hardly knew what to do.

If ever there was an occasion where soundcommon sense and a readiness to grasp a situationwere needed it seemed to be just then. And, fortunately,Jack Stormways was just the boy to meetthe conditions.

He sped up the river like an arrow from thebow, followed by the four other scouts. Thefrightened girls who witnessed their passage alwaysdeclared that never had they seen Stanhopeboys make faster speed, even in a race where avaluable prize was held out as a lure to the victor.

As he bore down upon the scene of confusionJack took it all in. Those who were flounderingamidst the numerous heavy cakes of ice must engagetheir attention without delay. He paid littleheed to the fortunate ones who were able to beon their feet, since this fact alone proved that theycould not have been seriously injured.10

Several, however, were not so fortunate, andJacks heart seemed to be almost in his throatwhen he saw that two of the skaters lay in themidst of the scattered cakes of ice as though painfullyinjured.

This way, boys! shouted the boy in the vanas they drew near the scene of the accident. Bluff,you and Wallace turn and head for that one yonder.Bobolink, come with meand Tom Betts.

Five seconds later he was bending over a smallgirl who lay there groaning and looking almostas white as the snow upon the hills around Stanhope.

Its little Lucy Stackpole! gasped Tom, ashe also arrived. Chances are she was hit by oneof these big ice cakes when they flew around!

Jack looked up.

Yes, Im afraid shes been badly hurt, fellows.It looks to me like a compound fracture of herright leg. She ought to be taken home in a hurry.See if you can round up a sled somewhere, andwell put her on it.

Heres Sandy Griggs and Lub Ketcham withjust the sort of big sled we need! cried TomBetts, as he turned and beckoned to a couple ofstout lads who evidently belonged to one of theother patrols, since they wore the customary campaignhats of the scouts.11

These boys had by now managed to recoverfrom their great alarm, and in response to thesummons came hurrying up, anxious to be of service,as true scouts always are.

Jack, who had been speaking to the terrifiedgirl, trying to soothe her as best he could, proceededin a business-like fashion to accomplish theduty he had in hand.

Two of you help me lift Lucy on to the sled,he said. We will have to fasten her in someway so therell be no danger of her slipping. ThenSandy and Lub will drag her to her home. On theway try to get Doctor Morrison over the phoneso he can meet you there. The sooner this fractureis attended to the better.

You could do it yourself, Jack, if it wasnt sobitter cold out here, suggested Tom Betts,proudly, for next to Paul Morrison himself, whosefather was the leading physician of Stanhope,Jack was known to be well up in all matters connectedwith first aid to the injured.

They lifted the suffering child tenderly, andplaced her on the comfortable sled. Both the newcomerswere only too willing to do all they couldto carry out the mission of mercy that had beenentrusted to their charge.

Well get her home in short order, Jack, neverfear, said Sandy Griggs, as he helped fasten an12extra piece of rope around the injured girl, so thatshe might not slip off the sled.

Yes, and have the doctor there in a jiffy, too,added Lub, who, while a clumsy chap, in his wayhad a very tender heart and was as good as gold.

Then get a move on you fellows, advisedJack. And while speed is all very good, safetycomes first every time, remember.

Trust us, Jack! came the ready and confidentreply, as the two scouts immediately beganto seek a passage among the far-flung ice-cakesthat had been so suddenly released from theiryears confinement between the walls of the dilapidatedice-house.

Only waiting to see them well off, Jack andthe other two once more turned toward the sceneof ruin.

See, the boys have managed to get the othergirl on her feet! exclaimed Bobolink, with a relievedair; so I reckon she must have been morescared than hurt, for which Im right glad. Whatnext, Jack? Say the word and well back you tothe limit.

We must take a look around the wreck of theice-house, replied the other, though I hardlybelieve any one could have been inside at the timeit fell.

Whew, I should surely hope not! cried Tom;13for the chances are ten to one hed be crushedas flat as a pancake before now, with all thattimber falling on him. I wouldnt give a snapof my fingers for his life, Jack.

Lets hope then theres no other victim, saidJack. If there is none, it will let the ice companyoff easier than they really deserve for allowingso ramshackle a building to stand, overhangingthe river just where we like to do most of ourskating every winter.

Suppose we climb around the timbers and seeif we can hear any sound of groaning, suggestedBobolink, suiting the action to his words.

Several men from the other ice-house reachedthe spot just then.

Jack turned to them as a measure of savingtime. If there were no men working inthe wrecked building at the time it fell there didnot seem any necessity for attempting to move anyof the twisted timbers that lay in such a confusedmass.

Hello! Jan, he called out as the panting laborersarrived. It was a big piece of luck that noneof you were inside the old ice-house when it collapsedjust now.

The man whom he addressed looked blanklyat the boy. Jack could see that he was laboringunder renewed excitement.14

Look here! was there any one in the old building,do you know, Jan? he demanded.

I ban see Maister Garrity go inside yoost aforeshe smash down, was the startling reply.

The boys stared at each other. Mr. ThomasGarrity was a very rich and singular citizen ofStanhope.

Finally Bobolink burst out with:

Say, you know Mr. Garrity is one of the ownersof these ice-houses, fellows. I guess he musthave come up here to-day to see for himself if theold building was as rickety as people said.

Huh! then I guess he found out all right,growled Tom Betts.

Never mind that now, said Jack, hastily.Mr. Garrity never had much use for the scouts,but all the same hes a human being. Weve gotour duty cut out for us plainly enough.

Guess you mean we must clear away this trashwith the help of these men here, Jack, suggestedWallace, eagerly.

Just what I had in mind, confessed Jack.But before we start in lets all listen and see ifwe can hear anything like a groan.

All of them stood in an expectant attitude,straining their hearing to the utmost.

Presently the listeners plainly caught the soundof a groan.

15

CHAPTER III

THE RESCUE

Jack, hes here under all this stuff! calledout Bobolink, excitedly.

Poor old chap, said Wallace. I wouldntlike to give much for his chance of getting out ofthe scrape with his life.

And to think, added Bluff, soberly, thatafter all the protestations made by the companythat the old house couldnt fall, it trapped one ofthe big owners when it smashed down. Its mightyqueer, it strikes me.

Keep still again, warned Jack. I want tocall out and see if Mr. Garrity can hear me.

A bully good scheme, Jack! asserted Bobolink.If we can locate him in that way it maysave us a heap of hard work dragging these timbersaround.

Jack dropped flat on his face, and, placing hismouth close to the wreckage where it seemedworst, called aloud:

Hello! Mr. Garrity, can you hear me?16

Yes! Oh, yes! came the faint response fromsomewhere below.

Are you badly hurt, sir? continued the scout.

I dont knowI believe not, but a beam iskeeping tons and tons from falling on me. I ampinned down here, and can hardly move. Hurryand get some of these timbers off before they falland crush me!

Every word came plainly to their ears now.Evidently, Mr. Garrity, understanding that reliefwas at hand, began to feel new courage. Jackwaited for no more.

I reckon Ive located him, boys, he told theothers, and now weve got to get busy.

Only tell us what to do, Jack, urged Wallace,and there are plenty of willing hands herefor the work, what with these strong men andthe rest of the boys.

Indeed, already newcomers were arriving, someof them being people who had been passing alongthe turnpike near by in wagons or sleighs at thetime the accident happened, and who hastened tothe spot in order to render what assistance theycould.

Jack seemed to know just how to go about thework. If he had been in the house-wrecking businessfor years he could hardly have improved uponhis system.17

Weve got to be careful, you understand, fellows,he told the others as they labored strenuouslyto remove the upper timbers from the pile,because that one timber he mentioned is the keylog of the jam. As long as it holds hes safe frombeing crushed. Here, dont try that beam yet,men. Take hold of the other one. And Bobolinkand Wallace, help me lift this section of shinglesfrom the roof!

So Jack went on to give clear directions. Hedid not intend that any new accident should belaid at their door on account of too much haste.Better that the man who was imprisoned under allthis wreckage should remain there a longer periodthan that he lose his life through carelessness.Jack believed in making thorough work of anythinghe undertook; and this trait marked him asa clever scout.

As others came to add to the number of willingworkers the business of delving into the wreck ofthe ice-house proceeded in a satisfactory manner.Once in a while Jack would call a temporary haltwhile he got into communication with the unfortunateman they were seeking to assist.

He seems to be all right so far, fellows, wasthe cheering report he gave after this had happenedfor the third time; and I think well beable to reach him in a short time now.18

As sure as youre born we will, Jack! announcedBobolink, triumphantly; for I can seethe big timber he said was acting as a buffer abovehim. Hey! weve got to be extra careful now,because one end of that beam is balanced ever sodelicately, and if it gets shoved off its anchoragegood-byeto Mr. Garrity!

Yes, came from below the wreckage, be verycareful, please, for its just as you say.

Jack was more than ever on the alert as thework continued. He watched every move thatwas made, and often warned those who strainedand labored to be more cautious.

In five minutes or so we ought to be able toget something under that loose end of the big timber,Jack, suggested Bobolink, presently.

In less time than that, he was told. Andheres the very prop to slip down through thatopening. I think I can reach it right now, if youstop the work for a bit.

He pushed the stout post carefully downward,endeavoring to adjust it so that it was bound tocatch and hold the timber should the latter breakaway from its frail support at that end. WhenBobolink saw him get up from his knees a minutelater he did not need to be told that Jacks endeavorhad been a success, for the satisfied smileon the others face told as much.19

Now let the good work go on with a rush!called out Jack. Not so much danger now, becauseIve put a crimp in that timbers threat tofall. Its securely wedged. Everybody get busy.

Jack led in the work himself, and the way theyremoved the heavy beams, many of them splinteredor broken in the downward rush of the building,was surely a sight worth seeing. At leastsome of the town people who came up just thenfelt they had good reason to be proud of the BannerBoy Scouts, who on other notable occasionshad brought credit to the community.

I can see him now! exclaimed Bobolink; andindeed, only a few more weighty fragments remainedto be lifted off before Jack would be ableto drop down into the cavity and assist the prisonerat close quarters.

Five minutes later the workers managed torelease Mr. Garrity, and Jack helped him out ofhis prison. The old gentleman looked considerablythe worse for his remarkable experience.There was blood upon his cheek, and he kept caressingone arm as though it pained him considerably.

Still his heart was filled with thanksgiving ashe stared around at the pile of torn timbers, andconsidered what a marvelous escape his had been.

Let me take a look at your arm, sir, said20Jack, who feared that it had been broken, becausea beam had pinned the gentleman by his arm to theground.

Mr. Garrity, who up to that time had paid verylittle attention to the Boy Scout movement thathad swept over that region of the eastern countrylike wildfire, looked at the eager, boyish faces ofhis rescuers. It could be seen that he was genuinelyaffected on noticing that most of them worethe badges that distinguish scouts the world over.

I hope my wrist is not broken, though eventhat would be a little price to pay for my temerityin entering that shaky old building, he venturedto say as he allowed Jack to examine his arm.

Im glad to tell you, sir, said the boy, quickly,that it is only a bad sprain. At the worst youwill be without the use of that hand for a monthor two.

Then I have great reason to be thankful, declaredMr. Garrity, solemnly. Perhaps this maybe intended for a lesson to me. And, to beginwith, I want to say that I believe I owe my verylife to you boys. I can never forget it. Others,of course, might have done all they could to digme out, but only a long-headed boy, like JackStormways here, would have thought to keep thattimber from falling and crushing me just whenescape seemed certain.21

He went around shaking hands with each oneof the boys, of course using his left arm, sincethe right was disabled for the time being. Jackdeftly made a sling out of a red bandana handkerchief,which he fastened around the neck ofMr. Garrity, and then gently placed the bruisedhand in this.

Was any other person injured when the ice-housecollapsed? asked Mr. Garrity, anxiously.

A couple of girls were struck by some of thebig cakes flung far and wide, explained Bobolink.Little Lucy Stackpole has a broken leg.We sent her home on a sled, and the doctor willsoon be at her house, sir.

That is too bad! declared the part owner ofthe building, frowning. I hoped that the bruntof the accident had fallen on my shoulders alone.Of course, the company will be liable for damages,as well as the doctors bill; and I suppose we deserveto be hit pretty hard to pay for our stupidity.But I am glad it is no worse.

Excuse me, Mr. Garrity, but perhaps you hadbetter have that swelling wrist attended to as soonas possible, remarked Jack. You have somebruises, too, that are apt to be painful for severaldays. There is a carriage on the road that mightbe called on to take you home.

Thank you, Jack, I will do as you say, replied22the one addressed. But depend on it I mean tomeet you boys again, and that at a very earlydate.

Were going to be away somewhere on a midwinterhike immediately after Christmas, sir,Bobolink thought it best to explain. Somehowdeep down in his heart he was already wonderingwhether this remarkable rescue of Mr. Garritymight not develop into some sort of connectionwith their partly formed plans.

Yes, added Bluff, eagerly, suddenly possessedby the same hope, and its all going to be settledto-night when we have our monthly meeting inthe big room under the church. Wed be pleasedto have you drop in and see us, sir. Lots of theleading citizens of Stanhope have visited ourrooms from time to time, but I dont rememberever having seen you there, Mr. Garrity.

Thank you for the invitation, my lad, said theother, smiling grimly. Perhaps I shall avail myselfof it, and I might possibly have something ofinterest to communicate to you and your fellowscouts, and waving his hand to them he walkedaway.

23

CHAPTER IV

A QUICK RETURN FOR SERVICES RENDERED

That night turned out clear and frosty. Winterhaving set in so early seemed bent on keepingup its unusual record. The snow on the groundcrackled underfoot in the fashion dear to the heartof every boy who loves outdoor sports.

Overhead, the bright moon, pretty well advanced,hung in space. It was clearly evidentthat no one need think of carrying a lantern withhim to the meeting place on such a glorious night.

The Boy Scouts of Stanhope had been fortunateenough to be given the use of a large room underthe church with the clock tower. On cold nightsthis was always heated for them, so that theyfound it a most comfortable place in which tohold their animated meetings.

There was a large attendance on this occasion,for while possibly few among the members of thetroop could take advantage of this midwinter tripinto the wilds, every boy was curious to know allthe details.24

In this same spacious room there was fitted upa gymnasium for the use of the boys one night aweek, and many of them availed themselves of theprivilege. As this was to be a regular businessmeeting, however, the apparatus had been drawnaside so as not to be in the way.

As the roster was being called it might be justas well to give the full membership of the troopso that the reader may be made acquainted withthe chosen comrades of Jack and Paul.

The Red Fox Patrol, which contained the veteransof the organization, was made up of thefollowing members:

Paul Morrison; Jack Stormways; Bobolink, theofficial bugler; Bluff Shipley, the drummer of thetroop; Nuthin Cypher; William Carberry; Wallace,his twin brother; and Tom Betts. Paul, ashas been said, was patrol leader, and served alsoas assistant scout-master when Mr. Gordon wasabsent from town.

In the second division known as the Gray FoxPatrol were the following:

Jud Elderkin, patrol leader; Joe Clausin, AndyFlinn, Phil Towns, Horace Poole, Bob Tice, CurlyBaxter, and Cliff Jones.

The Black Fox Patrol had several absentees,but when all were present they answered to theirnames as below:25

Frank Savage, leader; Billie Little, Nat Smith,Sandy Griggs, Old Dan Tucker, Red Collins,Spider Sexton, and last but not least involume of voice, Gusty Bellows.

A fourth patrol that was to be called the SilverFox was almost complete, lacking just three members;and those who made up this were:

George Hurst, leader; Lub Ketcham, BarryNichols, Malcolm Steele and a new boy in townby the name of Archie Fletcher.

Apparently, the only business of importance beforethe meeting was in connection with the schemeto take a midwinter outing, something that waslooked upon as unique in the annals of the association.

The usual order of the meeting was hurriedthrough, for every one felt anxious to hear whatsort of proposition the assistant scout-master intendedto spread before the meeting for approval.

I move we suspend the rules for to-night, andhave an informal talk for a change! said Bobolink,when he had been recognized by the chair.

A buzz of voices announced that the idea wasfavorably received by many of those present;and, accordingly, the chairman, no other than Paulhimself, felt constrained to put the motion afterit had been duly seconded. He did so with a smile,well knowing what Bobolinks object was.26

You have all heard the motion that the rulesbe suspended for the remainder of the evening,he went on to say, so that we can have a heart-to-hearttalk on matters that concern us just now.All in favor say aye!

A rousing chorus of ayes followed.

Contrary, no! continued Paul, and as completesilence followed he added hastily: Themotion is carried, and the regular business meetingwill now stand adjourned until next month.

Now lets hear what youve been hatching upfor us, Paul? called out Bobolink.

So say we all, Paul! cried half a dozen eagervoices, and the boys left their seats to crowdaround their leader.

I only hope its Rattlesnake Mountain wereheaded for! exclaimed Tom Betts, who had awarm feeling in his boyish heart for that particularsection of country, where once upon a time thetroop had pitched camp, and had met with someamusing and thrilling adventures, as describedin a previous volume, called The Banner BoyScouts on a Tour.

On my part I wish it would turn out to be goodold Lake Tokala, where my heart has often beencentered as I think of the happy days we spentthere.

It was, of course, Bobolink who gave utterance27to this sentiment. Perhaps there were others whoreally echoed his desire, for they had certainly hada glorious time of it when cruising in the motorboats so kindly loaned to them.

Paul held up his hand for silence, and immediatelyevery voice became still. Discipline was enforcedat these meetings, for the noisy boys andthose inclined to play practical pranks had learnedlong ago they would have to smother their feelingsat such times or be strongly repressed by thechair.

Listen, said the leader, in his clear voice,you kindly asked me to try to plan a trip for theholidays that would be of the greatest benefit tous as an organization of scouts. I seriously consideredhalf a dozen plans, among them RattlesnakeMountain, and Cedar Island in Lake Tokala.In fact, I was on the point of suggestingthat we take the last mentioned trip when somethingcame up that entirely changed my plan forthe outing.

He stopped to see what effect his words werehaving. Evidently, he had aroused the curiosityof the assembled scouts to fever heat, for severalvoices immediately called out:

Hear! hear! please go on, Paul! Were dyingto know what the game is!

Paul smiled, as he went on to say:28

I guess you have all been so deeply interestedin what was going on to-night, that few of younoticed that we have a friend present who slippedinto the room just as the roll call began. All ofyou must know the gentleman, so its hardly necessaryfor me to introduce Mr. Thomas Garrity toyou.

Of course, every one turned quickly on hearingthis. A figure that had been seated in a dim cornerof the assembly room arose, and Bobolinkgasped with a delicious sense of pleasure when herecognized the man whom he and his fellow scoutshad assisted that very afternoon.

Please come forward, Mr. Garrity, said Paul,and tell the boys what you suggested to me latethis afternoon. Im sure theyd appreciate it morecoming directly from you than getting it secondhand.

While a hum of eager anticipation arose allaround, Mr. Garrity made his way to the side ofthe patrol leader and president of the meeting.

I have no doubt, he said, that those of youwho were not present to-day when our old ice-housefell and caught me in the ruins, have heardall about the accident, so I need not refer to theincident except to say that I shall never cease tobe grateful to the scouts for the clever way inwhich they dug me out of the wreck.29

Hear! hear! several excited scouts shouted.

I happened to learn that you were contemplatinga trip during the holidays, and when anidea slipped into my mind I lost no time in callingupon Paul Morrison, your efficient leader, in orderto interest him in my plan.

Hear! hear!

It happens that I own a forest cabin up in thewilderness where I often go to rest myself and getaway from all excitement. It is in charge of afaithful woodsman by the name of Tolly Tip.You can reach it by skating a number of miles upa stream that empties into Lake Tokala. Thehunting is said to be very good around there, andyou will find excellent pickerel fishing through theice in Lake Tokala. If you care to do me thefavor of accepting my offer, the services of myman and the use of the cabin are at your disposal.Even then I shall feel that this is only a beginningof the deep interest I am taking in the scouts organization;for I have had my eyes opened atlast in a wonderful manner.

As Mr. Garrity sat down, rosy-red from theexertion of speaking to a party of boys, Paul immediatelyrapped for order, and put the question.

All who are in favor of accepting this generousoffer say yes! and every boy joined in the vociferousshout that arose.

30

CHAPTER V

A STARTLING INTERRUPTION

Mr. Garrity, your kind offer is accepted withthanks, announced Paul. And as you suggestedto me, several of us will take great pleasure incalling on you to-morrow to go into details andto get full directions from you.

Then perhaps I may as well go home now,boys, said the old gentleman; as my wrist ispaining me considerably. I only want to add thatthis has been a red day in my calendar. The collapseof the old ice-house is going to prove one ofthose blessings that sometimes come to us indisguise. I only regret that two little girls wereinjured. As for myself, I am thoroughly pleasedit happened.

Before you leave us, sir, said Bobolink,boldly, please let us show in some slight way howmuch we appreciate your kind offer. Boys, threecheers for Mr. Thomas Garrity, our latest convert,and already one of our best friends!

Possibly Bobolinks method of expressing his31feelings might not ordinarily appeal to a man ofMr. Garritys character, but just now the delightedold gentleman was in no mood for fault finding.

As the boyish cheers rang through the roomthere were actually tears in Mr. Garritys eyes.Truly that had been a great day for him, and perhapsit might prove a joyous occasion to many ofhis poor tenants, some of whom had occasion tolook upon him as a just, though severe, landlord,exacting his rent to the last penny.

After he had left the room the hum of voicesbecame furious. One would have been inclined tosuspect the presence of a great bee-hive in the nearvicinity.

Paul, you know all about this woods cabin heowns, said Tom Betts, so suppose you enlightenthe rest of us.

One thing tickles me about the venture! exclaimedBobolink; That is that we pass acrossLake Tokala in getting there. Ive been hankeringto see that place in winter time for ever solong.

Yes, added Tom, eagerly, thats true. Andwhats to hinder some of us from using our iceboatspart of the way?

Nothing at all, Paul assured him. I wentinto that with Mr. Garrity, and came to the conclusionthat it could be done. Of course, a whole32lot depends on how many of us can go on thetrip.

How many could sleep in his cabin do youthink, Paul? demanded Jack.

Yes. For one, Id hate to have to bunk outin the snow these cold nights, said Bluff, shakinghis head seriously, for Bluff dearly liked the comfortsof a cheery fire inside stout walls of logs,while the bitter wintry wind howled without, andthe snow drifted badly.

He told me it was unusually large, explainedPaul. In fact, it has two big rooms and couldin a pinch accommodate ten fellows. Of course,every boy would be compelled to tote his blanketsalong with him, because Mr. Garrity neverdreamed he would have an army occupy his logshanty.

The more I think of it the better it sounds!declared Jack.

Then first of all we must try to find out justwho can go, suggested Bobolink.

What if there are too many to be accommodatedeither on the iceboats we own or in thecabin? remarked Tom Betts, uneasily.

Shucks! that ought to be easy, suggested another.All we have to do is to pull straws, andsee who the lucky ten are.

Then let those who are positive they can go33step aside here, Paul ordered; and at this therewas a shuffling of feet and considerable movingabout.

Remember, you must be sure you can go,warned Paul. Afterwards well single out thosewho believe they can get permission, but feel somedoubts. If there is room they will come in fornext choice.

Several who had started forward held back atthis. Those who took their stand as the leaderrequested consisted of Jack, Bobolink, Bluff, TomBetts, Jud Elderkin, Sandy Griggs, Phil Townsand Spider Sexton.

Counting myself in the list that makes nine forcertain, Paul observed. It was noticed that TomBetts as well as Bobolink looked exceedingly relievedon discovering that, after all, there need beno drawing of lots.

Now let those who have strong hopes of beingable to go stand up to be counted, continued Paul.Ill keep a list of the names, and the first whocomes to say he has received full permission willbe the one to make up the full count of ten members,which is all the cabin can accommodate.

The Carberry twins, as well as several others,stood over in line to have their names taken down.

If one of us can go, Paul, explained WallaceCarberry, well fix it up between us which it34shall be. But Im sorry to say our folks donttake to this idea of a winter camp very strongly.

Same over at my house, complained BobTice. Mother is afraid something terrible mighthappen to us in such a hard spell of winter. As ifscouts couldnt take care of themselves anywhere,and under all conditions!

There were many gloomy faces seen in the gathering,showing that other boys knew their parentsdid not look on the delightful scheme with favor.Some of them could not accompany the party onaccount of other plans which had been arrangedby their parents.

If the ice stays as fine as it is now, remarkedTom Betts, we can spin down the river on ouriceboats, and maybe make our way through thatold canal to Lake Tokala as well. But how aboutthe creek leading up to the cabin, Paul? Did youask Mr. Garrity about it?

Yes, I asked him everything I could think of,came the ready reply. Im sorry to say it willbe necessary to leave our iceboats somewhere onthe lake, for the creek winds around in such away, and is so narrow in places, that none of uscould work the boats up there.

But wouldnt it be dangerous to leave them onthe lake so long? asked Tom, anxiously. Iveput in some pretty hard licks on my new craft,35and Id sure hate to have any one steal it fromme.

Yes, added Bobolink, quickly, and we allknow that Lawson crowd have been showing themselvesas mean as dirt lately. We thought we hadgot rid of our enemies some time ago, and herethis new lot of rivals seems bent on making lifemiserable for all scouts. They are a tough crowd,and pretend to look down on us as weaklings.Hank Lawson is now playing the part of the bullyin Stanhope, you know.

I even considered that, continued Paul, whoseldom omitted anything when laying plans. Mr.Garrity told me there was a man living on theshore of Lake Tokala, who would look after ouriceboats for a consideration.

Bully for that! exclaimed Tom, apparentlymuch relieved. All the same I think it would beas well for us to try to keep our camping placea secret if it can be done. Let folks understandthat were going somewhere around Lake Tokala;and perhaps the Lawson crowd will miss us.

That isnt a bad idea, Paul agreed, and Idlike every one to remember it. Of course, we feelwell able to look after ourselves, but thats noreason why we should openly invite Hank and hiscronies to come and bother us. Are you all agreedto that part of the scheme?36

In turn every scout present answered in theaffirmative. Those who could not possibly accompanythe party took almost as much interest inthe affair as those intending to go; and there wouldbe heart burnings among the members of StanhopeTroop from now on.

How about the grub question, Paul? demandedBobolink.

Every fellow who is going will have to providea certain amount of food to be carried along withhis blanket, gun, clothes bag, and camera. All thatcan be arranged when we meet to-morrow afternoon.In the meantime, Im going to appointBobolink and Jack as a committee of two to spendwhat money we can spare in purchasing certaingroceries such as coffee, sugar, hams, potatoes, andother things to be listed later.

Bobolink grinned happily on hearing that.

See how pleased it makes him, jeered TomBetts. When you put Bobolink on the committeethat looks after the grub, Paul, you hit him closeto where he lives. One thing sure, well haveplenty to eat along with us, for Bobolink neverunderrates the eating capacity of himself or hischums.

You can trust me for that, remarked the onereferred to, because I was really hungry once inmy life, and Ive never gotten over the terrible37feeling. Yes, there is going to be a full dinnerpail in Camp Garrity, let me tell you!

Camp Garrity sounds good to me! exclaimedSandy Griggs.

Let it go down in the annals of StanhopeTroop at that! cried another scout.

We could hardly call it by any other name,after the owner has been so good as to place itat our disposal, said Paul, himself well pleasedat the idea.

Bobolink was about to say something morewhen, without warning, there came a sudden crashaccompanied by the jingling of broken glass. Oneof the windows fell in as though some hard objecthad struck it. The startled scouts, looking up,saw the arm and face of a boy thrust part waythrough the aperture, showing that he must haveslipped and broken the window while trying tospy upon the meeting.

38

CHAPTER VI

A GLOOMY PROSPECT FOR JUD

Its Jud Mabley! exclaimed one of the scouts,instantly recognizing the face of the unlucky youthwho had fallen part way through the window.

Jud was a boy of bad habits. He had appliedto the scouts for membership, but had not beenadmitted on account of his unsavory reputation.Smarting under this sting Jud had turned to HankLawson and his crowd for sympathy, and wasknown to be hand-in-glove with those young rowdies.

Hes been spying on us, thats what! criedBobolink, indignantly.

And learning our plans, like as not! addedTom Betts.

He ought to be caught and ridden on a rail!exclaimed a third member of the troop, filledwith anger.

Id say duck him in the river after cuttinga hole in the ice! called out another boy, furiously.39

Huh! first ketch your rabbit before you startcookin him! laughed Jud in a jeering fashion, ashe waved them a mocking adieu through thebroken window, and then vanished from view.

After him, fellows! shouted the impetuousBobolink, and there was a hasty rush for the door,the boys snatching up their hats as they ran.

Paul was with the rest, not that he cared particularlyabout catching the eavesdropper, but hewanted to be on hand in case the rest of the scoutsovertook Jud; for Paul held the reputation of thetroop dear, and would not have the scouts sullytheir honor by a mean act.

The boys poured out of the meeting-place ina stream. The bright moon showed them a runningfigure which they judged must of course beJud; so away they sprang in hot pursuit.

Somehow, it struck them that Jud was not runningas swiftly as might be expected, for he hadoften proved himself a speedy contestant on thecinder path. He seemed to wabble more or less,and looked back over his shoulder many times.

Bobolink suspected there might be some sort oftrick connected with this action on the part ofthe other, for Jud was known to be a schemer.

Jack, he may be drawing us into a trap ofsome sort, dont you think? he managed to gaspas he ran at the side of the other.40

Apparently Jack, too, had noticed the queer actionsof the fugitive. He had seen a motherrabbit pretend to be lame when seeking to drawenemies away from the place where her youngones lay hidden; yes, and a partridge often did thesame thing, as he well knew.

I was noticing that, Bobolink, he told theother, but it strikes me Jud must have been hurtsomehow when he crashed through that window.

You mean he feels more or less weak, doyou?

Something like that, came the reply.

Well, were coming up on him like fun, anyway,no matter what the cause may be! Bobolinkdeclared, and then found it necessary to stop talkingif he wanted to keep in the van with severalof the swiftest runners among the scouts.

It was true that they were rapidly overtakingJud, who ran in a strange zigzag fashion like onewho was dizzy. He kept up until the leadersamong his pursuers came alongside; then he stoppedshort, and, panting for breath, squared off,striking viciously at them.

Jack and two other scouts closed in on him, regardlessof blows, and Jud was made a prisoner.He ceased struggling when he found it could availhim nothing, but glared at his captors as an Indianwarrior might have done.41

Huh! think youre smart, dont you, overhaulinme so easy, he told them disdainfully.But if I hadnt been knocked dizzy when I fellyou never would a got me. Now whatre youmeanin to do about it? Aint a feller got a rightto walk the public streets of this here town withoutbein grabbed by a pack of cowards in soldiersuits, and treated rough-house way?

That doesnt go with us, Jud Mabley, saidBobolink, indignantly. You were playing thespy on us, you know it, trying to listen to all wewere saying.

So as to tell that Lawson crowd, and get themto start some mean trick on us in the bargain,added Tom Betts.

O-ho! aint a feller a right to stop alongside ofa church to strike a match for his pipe? jeeredthe prisoner, defiantly. How was I to know yourcrowd was inside there? The streets are free toany one, man, woman or boy, I take it.

How about the broken window, Jud? demandedBobolink, triumphantly.

Yes! did you smash that pane of glass whenyou threw your match away, Jud, asked anotherboy, with a laugh.

He was caught in the act, fellows, assertedFrank Savage, and the next question with us iswhat ought we to do to punish a sneak and a spy?42

I said it beforeride him on a rail aroundtown so people can see how scouts stand up fortheir own rights! came a voice from the groupof excited boys.

Oh! that would be letting him off too easy,Tom Betts affirmed. Twould serve him justabout right if we ducked him a few times in theriver.

All we need is an axe to cut a hole through theice, another lad went on to say, showing that thesuggestion rather caught his fancy as the appropriatething to domaking the punishment fit thecrime, as it were.

Keep it goin, sneered the defiant Jud, notshowing any signs of quailing under this bombardment.Try and think up a few more pleasantthings to do to me. If you reckon you cn makeme show the white feather youve got anotherguess comin, I want you to know. Im truegrit, I am!

You may be singing out of the other side ofyour mouth, Jud Mabley, before were throughwith you, threatened Curly Baxter.

Mebbe now you might think to get a hemprope and try hangin me, laughed the prisoner inan offensive manner. Thats what they do tospies, you know, in the army. Yes, and I knowof a beauty of a limb that stands straight out from43the body of the tree bout ten feet from theground. Shall I tell you where it lies?

This sort of defiant talk was causing more ofthe scouts to become angry. It seemed to themlike adding insult to injury. Here this fellow hadspied upon their meeting, possibly learned allabout the plans they were forming for the midwinterholidays, and then finally had the misfortuneto fall and smash one of the window panes,which would, of course, have to be made good bythe scouts, as they were under heavy obligationsto the trustees of the church for favors received.

A mean fellow like you, Jud Mabley, assertedJoe Clausin, deserves the worst sort of punishmentthat could be managed. Why, it would aboutserve you right if you got a lovely coat of tar andfeathers to-night.

Jud seemed to shrink a little at hearing that.

You wouldnt dare try such a game as that,he told them, with a faint note of fear in his voice.Every one of youd have to pay for it before thelaw. Some things might pass, but thats goin ittoo strong. My dadd have you locked up in thetown cooler if I came home lookin like a bird,sure he would.

Juds father was something of a local power inpolitics, so that the boys boast was not withoutmore or less force. Some of the scouts may have44considered this; at any rate, one of them nowbroke out with:

A ducking ought to be a good enough punishmentfor this chap, I should say; so, fellows, letsstart in to give it to him.

I know where I can lay hands on an axe allright, to chop a hole through the ice, assertedBobolink, eagerly.

Then we appoint you a committee of one tosupply the necessary tools for the joyous occasion,Red Collins cried out, gleefully falling inwith the scheme.

Hold on, boys, dont you think it would beenough if Jud made an apology to us, and promisednot to breathe a word of what he chanced tohear?

It was Horace Poole who said this, for he oftenproved to be the possessor of a tender heart anda forgiving spirit. His mild proposition waslaughed down on the spot.

Much hed care what he promised us, if onlywe let him go scot free, jeered one scout. Iveknown him to give his solemn word before now,and break it when he felt like it. I wouldnt trusthim out of my sight. Promises count for nothingwith one of Jud Mableys stamp.

How about that, Jud? demanded anotherboy. Would you agree to keep your lips buttoned45up, and not tell a word of what you haveheard?

I aint promisin nothin, I want you to know,replied the prisoner, boldly; so go on with yourfunny business. You wont ketch me squealingworth a cent. Honest to goodness now I halfblieve its all a big bluff. Lets see you do yourworst.

Drag him along to the river bank, fellows, andIll join you there with the axe, roared Bobolink,now fully aroused by the obstinate manner of thecaptive.

Wait a bit, fellows.

It was Jack Stormways who said this, and eventhe impetuous Bobolink came to a halt.

Go on Jack. Whats your plan? demandedone of the group.

I was only going to remind you that in the absenceof Mr. Gordon, Paul is acting as scout-master,and before you do anything that may reflectupon the good name of Stanhope Troop youdbetter listen to what hes got to say on the subject.

46

CHAPTER VII

PAUL TAKES A CHANCE

These sensible words spoken by Jack Stormwayshad an immediate effect upon the angryscouts, some of whom realized that they had beentaking matters too much in their own hands. Paulhad remained silent all this while, waiting to seejust how far the hotheads would go.

First of all, he went on to say in that calmtone which always carried conviction with it, letsgo back to the meeting-room, and take Jud along.I have a reason for wanting you to do that, whichyou shall hear right away.

No one offered an objection, although doubtlessit was understood that Paul did not like suchradical measures as ducking the spy who hadfallen into their hands. They were by this timefully accustomed to obeying orders given by asuperior officer, which is one of the best thingslearned by scouts.

Jud, for some reason, did not attempt to holdback when urged to accompany them, though for47that matter it would have availed him nothing tohave struggled and strained, for at least foursturdy scouts had their grip on his person.

In this manner they retraced their steps. Fortunatelythe last boy out had been careful enoughto close the door after making his hurried exit, sothat they found the room still warm and comfortable.

They crowded inside, and a number of themfrowned as they glanced toward the broken window,through which a draught was blowing. Theyhoped Paul would not be too easy with the rascalwho had been responsible for that smash.

First of all, the scout-master began as theycrowded around the spot where he and Jud stood,the latter staring defiantly at the frowning scouts,I want to remark that it neednt bother us verymuch even if Jud tells all he may have heard ussaying. We shall always be at least two to one,and can take care of ourselves if attacked. Thosefellows understand that, I guess.

Weve proved it to them in the past timeswithout number, for a fact, observed Jack, diplomatically.

If they care to spend a week in the snow woods,let them try it, continued the other. Good luckto them, say I; and heres hoping they may learnsome lessons there that will make them turn over48a new leaf. The forest is plenty big enough forall who want to breathe the fresh air and havea good time. But theres another thing I had inmind when I asked you to bring Jud back here.Some of you may have noticed that he lets hisarm hang down in a queer way. Look closer athis hand and youll discover the reason.

Almost immediately several of the scouts criedout.

Why, theres blood dripping from his fingers,as sure as anything!

He must have cut his arm pretty bad when hefell through that window!

Whew! Id hate to have that slash. See howthe broken glass cut his coat sleevejust as ifyoud taken a sharp knife and gashed it!

Take off your coat, Jud, please! said Paul.

Had Paul used a less kindly voice or omittedthat last word in his request, the obstinate anddefiant Jud might have flatly declined to obligehim. As it was he looked keenly at Paul, thengrinned, and with something of an effort startedto doff his coat, Jack assisting him in the effort.

Then the boys saw that his shirt sleeve wasstained red. Several of the weaker scouts utteredlow exclamations of concern, not being accustomedto such sights; but the stouter hearted veteranshad seen too many cuts to wince now.49

Paul gently but firmly rolled the shirt sleeve upuntil the gash made by the broken glass was revealed.It was a bad cut, and still bled quitefreely. No wonder Jud had run in such an unwontedfashion. No person wounded as badly asthat could be expected to run with his customaryzeal, for the shock and the loss of blood wassure to make him feel weak.

Jud stared at his injury now with what wasalmost an expression of pride. When he saw someof the scouts shrink back his lip curled with disdain.

Get a tin basin and fill it with warm water backin the other room, Jack! said Paul, steadily.

Whatre you goin to do to me, Paul? demandedJud, curiously, for he could not bring himselfto believe that any one who was his enemywould stretch out a hand toward him save in angerand violence.

Oh! Im only going to wash that cut so as totake out any foreign matter that might poison youif left there, and then bind it up the best way possible,remarked the young scout-master.

There was some low whispering among theboys. Much as they marveled at such a way ofreturning evil with good they could not take exceptionto Pauls action. Every one of them knewdeep down in his inmost heart that scout law50always insisted on treating a fallen enemy withconsideration, and even forgiving him many timesif he professed sorrow for his evil ways.

Jack came back presently. He not only borethe basin of warm water but a towel as well. Judwatched operations curiously. He was seeing whatwas a strange thing according to his ideas. Hecould not quite bring himself to believe that therewas not some cruel hoax hidden in this act ofapparent friendliness, and that accounted for theway he kept his teeth tightly closed. He did notwish to be taken unawares and forced to cry out.

Paul washed gently the ugly, jagged cut. Then,taking out a little zinc box containing some soothingand healing salve, which he always carriedwith him, he used fully half of it upon the wound.

Afterwards he produced a small inch wide rollof surgical linen, and began winding the tapemethodically around the injured arm of Jud Mabley.Jack amused himself by watching the playof emotions upon the hard face of Jud. Evidently,he was beginning to comprehend the meaningof Pauls actions, though he could not understandwhy any one should act so.

When the last of the tape had been used andfastened with a small safety pin, Paul drew downthe shirt sleeve, buttoned it, and then helped Judon with his coat.51

Now you can go free when you take a notion,Jud, he told the other.

Huh! then you aint meanin to gimme thatduckin after all? remarked the other, with asneering look of triumph at Bobolink.

You have to thank Paul for getting you off,asserted one scout, warmly. Had it been left tothe rest of us youd have been in soak long beforethis.

For my part, said Paul, I feel that so faras punishment goes Jud has got all that is comingto him, for that arm will give him a lot of troublebefore it fully heals. I hope every time it painshim hell remember that scouts as a rule are taughtto heap coals of fire on the heads of their enemieswhen the chance comes, by showing them a favor.

But, Paul, youre forgetting something, urgedTom Betts.

Thats a fact, how about the broken window,Paul? cried Joe Clausin, with more or less indignation.For while it might be very well to forgiveJud his spying tricks some one would have to payfor a new pane of glass in the basement window,and it was hard luck if the burden fell on theinnocent parties, while the guilty one escaped scotfree.

It was noticed that Jud shut his lips tight togetheras though making up his mind on the spot52to decline absolutely to pay a cent for what hadbeen a sheer accident, and which had already costhim a severe wound.

I havent forgotten that, fellows, said Paul,quietly. Of course its only fair Jud should paythe dollar it will cost to have a new pane put inthere to-morrow. I shall order Mr. Nickerson toattend to it myself. And I shall also insist onpaying the bill out of my own pocket, unless Judhere thinks it right and square to send me themoney some time to-morrow. Thats all Ive gotto say, Jud. Theres the door, and no one willput out a hand to stop you. I hope you wonthave serious trouble with that arm of yours.

Jud stared dumbly at the speaker as thoughalmost stunned. Perhaps he might have saidsomething under the spur of such strange emotionsas were chasing through his brain, but just thenBobolink chanced to sneer. The sound acted onJud like magic, for he drew himself up, turned tolook boldly into the face of each and every boypresent, then thrust his right hand into his buttonedcoat and with head thrown back walked outof the room, noisily closing the door after him.

Several of the scouts shook their heads.

Pretty fine game you played with him, Paul,remarked George Hurst, but it strikes me it waslike throwing pearls before swine. Jud has a hide53as thick as a rhinoceros and nothing can pierce it.Kind words are thrown away with fellows of hisstripe, Im afraid. A kick and a punch are all theycan understand.

Yes, added Red Collins, when you try thesoft pedal on them they think youre only afraid.Im half sorry now you didnt let us carry outthat ducking scheme. Jud deserved it right well,for a fact.

It would have been cruel to drop him into icewater with such a wound freshly made, remarkedJack. Wait and see whether Pauls plan wasworth the candle.

Mark my words, commented Tom Betts,well have lots of trouble with him yet.

Shucks! who cares? laughed Bobolink, itsall in the game, you know. Theres Paul gettingready to go home, so lets forget it till we meetto-morrow.

54

CHAPTER VIII

BOBOLINK AND THE STOREKEEPER

According to their agreement, Jack and Bobolinkmet on a certain corner on the followingmorning. Their purpose was to purchase thestaple articles of food that half a score of hungrylads would require to see them through a coupleof weeks stay in the snow forest.

Its a lucky thing, too, Bobolink remarked,after the other had displayed the necessary fundstaken from his pocket, that our treasury happensto be fairly able to stand the strain just now.

Oh, well! except for that wed have had to takeup subscriptions, laughed Jack. I know severalpeople who would willingly help us out. Thescouts of Stanhope have made good in the past,and a host of good friends are ready to backthem.

Yes, and for that matter I guess Mr. ThomasGarrity would have been only too glad to put hishand deep down in his pocket, suggested Bobolink.55

Hes an old widower, and with plenty of readycash, too, commented the other boy. But, afterall, its much better for us to stand our own expenseas long as we can.

Have you got the list that Paul promised tomake out with you, Jack? Id like to take asquint at it, if you dont mind. There may be afew things we could add to it.

As Bobolink was looked on as something of anauthority in this line, Jack hastened to produce thelist, so they could run it over and exchange suggestions.

Where shall we start in to buy the stuff?asked Bobolink, presently.

Oh! I dont know that it matters very much,replied his companion. Mr. Briggs has hadsome pretty fine hams in lately I heard at thehouse this morning, and if he treats us half-waydecent we might do all our trading with him.

I never took much stock in old Levi Briggs,said Bobolink. He hates boys for all thats out.I guess some of them do nag him more or less.I saw that Lawson crowd giving him a peck oftrouble a week ago. He threatened to call the policeif they didnt go away.

Well, we happen to be close to the Briggsstore, observed Jack, so we might as well dropin and see how he acts toward us.56

Huh! speaking of the Lawson bunch, therethey are right now! exclaimed Bobolink.

Loud jeering shouts close by told that Hankand his cronies were engaged in their favoritepractice of having fun. This generally partookof the nature of the old fable concerning boyswho were stoning frogs, which was great fun forthe boys, but death to the frogs.

Its a couple of ragged hoboes theyre naggingnow, burst out Bobolink.

The pair just came out of Briggs store,added Jack, where I expect they met a cold receptionif they hoped to coax a bite to eat fromthe old man.

Still, they couldnt have done anything to Hankand his crowd, so why should they be pushed offthe walk in that way? Bobolink went on to say.

As a rule the boy had no use for tramps. Helooked on the vagrants as a nuisance and a menaceto the community. At the same time, no self-respectingscout would think of casting the firststone at a wandering hobo, though, if attacked,he would always defend himself, and strike hard.

The tramps dont like the idea of engaging ina fight with a pack of tough boys right here intown, remarked Jack, because they know thepolice would grab them first, no matter if theywere only defending themselves. Thats why they57dont hit back, but only dodge the stones the boysare flinging.

Oh! thats a mean sort of game! cried Bobolink,as he saw the two tramps start to run wildlyaway. There! that shorter chap was hit in thehead with one of the rocks thrown after them. Ibet you it raised a fine lump. What a lot of cowardsthose Lawsons are, to be sure.

Well, the row is all over now, observed Jack.And as the tramps have disappeared around thecorner we dont want to break into the game, socome along to the store, and lets see what we cando there.

Bobolink continued to shake his head pugnaciouslyas he walked along the pavement. Hankand his followers were laughing at a great rateas they exchanged humorous remarks concerningthe recent fight which had been all one-sided.

Believe me! muttered Bobolink, if a couplemore scouts had been along just now Id havetaken a savage delight in pitching in and givingthat crowd the licking they deserved. Course atramp isnt worth much, but then hes human, andI hate to see anybody bullied.

It wasnt Hanks business to chase the hoboesout of town, said Jack. We have the policeforce to manage such things. Fact is, I reckonHanks bunch has done more to hurt the good58name of Stanhope than all the hoboes we ever hadcome around here.

If I had my way, Jack, thered be a publicwoodpile, and every tramp caught coming to townwould have to work his passage. I bet theredbe a sign on every cross-roads warning the brotherhoodto beware of Stanhope as they might ofthe smallpox. But heres Briggs store.

As they entered the place they could see thatthe proprietor was alone, his clerk being off onthe delivery wagon.

Whew! he certainly looks pretty huffy thismorning, muttered the observing Bobolink.Those tramps must have bothered him more orless before he could get them to move on.

It might be he had some trouble with Hankbefore we came up, Jack suggested; but furthertalk was prevented by the coming up of the storekeeper.

Mr. Briggs was a small man with white hair,and keen, rat-like eyes. He possessed good businessabilities, and had managed to accumulatea small fortune in the many years he purveyed tothe people of Stanhope.

Latterly, however, the little, old man had beengrowing very nervous and irritable, perhaps withthe coming of age and its infirmities. He detestedboys, and since that feeling soon becomes mutual59there was open war between Mr. Briggs and manyof the juveniles of Stanhope.

Suspicious by nature, he always watched whenboys came into his store as though he weighed themall in the same balance with Hank Lawson, andconsidered that none of Stanhopes rising generationcould be trusted out of sight.

Long ago he had taken to covering every appleand sugar barrel with wire screens to preventpilfering. Neither Jack nor Bobolink had everhad hot words with the storekeeper, but for allthat they felt that his manner was openly aggressiveat the time they entered the door.

If you want to buy anything, boys, said Mr.Briggs curtly, Ill wait on you; but if youve onlycome in here to stand around my store and getwarm Ill have to ask you to move on. My timeis too valuable to waste just now.

Jack laughed on hearing that.

Oh! we mean business this morning, Mr.Briggs, he remarked pleasantly, while Bobolinkscowled, and muttered something under hisbreath. The fact is a party of us scouts areplanning to spend a couple of weeks up in thesnow woods, continued Jack. We have a listhere of some things we want to take along, andwill pay cash for them. We want them deliveredto-day at our meeting room under the church.60

Let Mr. Briggs have the list, Jack, suggestedBobolink. He can mark the prices hell let ushave the articles for. Of course, sir, we mean tobuy where we can get the best terms for cash.

Bobolink knew the grasping nature of the oldstorekeeper, and perhaps this was intended for alittle trap to trip him up. Mr. Briggs glanced overthe list and promptly did some figuring, afterwhich he handed the paper back.

Seems to me your prices are pretty steep, sir!remarked Jack.

I should say they were, added Bobolink, witha gleam in his eyes. Why, you are two cents apound on hams above the other stores. Yes, andeven on coffee and rice you are asking more thanwe can get the same article for somewhere else.

Those are my regular prices, said the oldman, shortly. If they are not satisfactory to you,of course, you are at liberty to trade elsewhere. Infact, I do not believe you meant to buy these goodsof me, but have only come in to annoy me as thoseother good-for-nothing boys always do.

Indeed, you are mistaken, Mr. Briggs, expostulatedJack, who did not like to be falselyaccused when innocent. We are starting out tosee where we can get our provisions at the mostreasonable rates. Some of the storekeepers areonly too glad to give the scouts a reduction.61

Well, youll get nothing of the sort here, letme tell you, snapped the unreasonable old man.I cant afford to do business at cost just to pleasea lot of harum-scarum boys, who want to spenddays loafing in the woods when they ought to beearning an honest penny at work.

Come on, Jack, lets get out of here beforeI say something Ill be sorry for, remarked Bobolink,who was fiery red with suppressed anger.

Theres the door, and your room will be betterappreciated than your company, Mr. Briggs toldthem. And as for your trade, take it where youplease. Your people have left me for other storeslong ago, so why should I care?

Oh! thats where the shoe pinches, is it?chuckled Bobolink; and after that he and Jackleft the place, to do their shopping in more congenialquarters, while Mr. Briggs stood on hisdoorsteps and glared angrily after them.

62

CHAPTER IX

FIRE!

Saturday, eleven-thirty P.M., the night beforeChristmas, and alls well!

It was Frank Savage who made this remark,as with eight other scouts he trudged along, afterhaving left the house of the scout-master, PaulMorrison. Frank had been the lucky one to becounted among those who were going on the midwintertour, his parents having been coaxed intogiving their consent.

And on Monday morning we make the start,wind and weather permitting, observed Bobolink,with an eagerness he did not attempt to conceal.

So far as we know everything is in completereadiness, said Bluff Shipley.

Five iceboats are tugging at their halters,anxious to be off, laughed Jack. And therellbe a lot of restless sleepers in certain Stanhopehomes I happen to know.

Huh! there always are just before Christmas,chuckled Tom Betts. But this year we have a63double reason for lying awake and counting thedragging minutes. Course you committee of twolooked after the grub supplies as you were directed?

We certainly did! affirmed Bobolink, andcame near getting into a row with old Briggs athis store. He wanted to ask us top-notch pricesfor everything, and when we kicked he acted sougly we packed out.

Just like the old curmudgeon, declared PhilTowns. The last time I was in his place he keptfollowing me around as if he thought I meant tosteal him out of house and home. I just up andtold my folks I never wanted to trade with Mr.Briggs again, and so they changed to the otherstore.

Oh, well, hes getting old and peevish, saidJack. You see he lives a lonely life, and has anarrow vision. Besides, some boys have givenhim a lot of trouble, and he doesnt know the differencebetween decent fellows and scamps. Wedbetter let him alone, and talk of something else.

I suppose all of you notice that its growncloudy late to-day, suggested Spider Sexton.

Oh! I hope that doesnt mean a heavy snowfallbefore we get started, exclaimed Bluff. Ifa foot of snow comes down on us, good-bye to ourusing the iceboats as weve been planning.64

The weather reports at the post office say fairand cold ahead for this section, announced JackStormways, at which there arose many faintcheers.

Good boy, Jack! cried Bobolink, patting theothers back. It was just like the thoughtfulfellow you are to go down and read the prospectthe weather sharps in Washington hold out forus.

You must thank Paul for that, then, admittedthe other, for he told me about it. I rather expectPaul had the laugh on the rest of us to-night,boys.

Now youre referring to that Jud Mabley business,Jack, said Phil Towne.

Well, when Paul let him off so easy every oneof us believed he was wrong, and that the chanceswere ten to one Paul would have to fork over thedollar to pay for having that window pane put in,continued Jack. But you heard what happened?

Yes, seems that the age of miracles hasntpassed yet, admitted Bobolink. I thought I wasdreaming when Paul told me that Juds littlebrother came this morning with an envelope addressedto him, and handed it in without a word.

And when Paul opened it, continued Jack,taking up the story in his turn, he found a nice,new dollar bill enclosed, with a scrap of paper on65which Jud had scrawled these words: Neverwould have paid only I couldnt let you stand formy accident, and after you treated me so white,too. But this wipes it all out, remember. Imno crawler!

It tickled Paul a whole lot, let me remark,Jud Elderkin explained. I do half believe hethinks he can see a rift in the cloud, and that someof these days hopes to get a chance to drag JudMabley out of that ugly crowd.

It would be just like Paul to lay plans thatway, acknowledged Jack. I know him like abook, and believe me, he gets more pleasure outof making his enemies feel cheap than the rest ofus would if we gave them a good licking.

Pauls a sure-enough trump! admitted Bluff.Do you know what he said when he was showingthat scrawl to us fellows? I was close enough toget part of it, and Im dead sure the words enteringwedge formed the backbone of his remark.

Do we go, snow or sunshine, then? askedBluff, as they came to a halt on a corner whereseveral of the boys had to leave the rest, as theirhomes lay in different directions.

Thats for Paul to decide, Jack told him.But we know our leader well enough to feel sureits got to be a fierce storm to make him call a tripoff, once all preparations have been made.66

Oh! dont borrow trouble, sang out Bobolink.Everything is lovely, and the goose hangshigh. Just keep on remembering that to-morrowwill be Christmas, and all of us expect to findsomething in our stockings, so to speak.

Theres one word of warning I ought to speakbefore we separate, said Jack, pretending to looksolemn as they stood under a corner street lamp.

Now the chances are youre referring to thatLawson crowd again, Jack, suggested Bobolink.

This time it comes nearer home than the Lawsons,said Jack, seriously.

Then for goodness sake tell us what you haveon your mind, urged Tom Betts, impulsively.

As the second in command in our patrol, Jackwent on gravely, since Paul failed to say anythingabout it, I feel it my solemn duty to warn severalof our number to be extra careful how they gorgeat Christmas dinner to-morrow. Too much turkeyand plum pudding have stretched out many a bravescout before now. If there are several vacanciesin our ranks Monday morning well know whatto lay it all to. I beg of you to abstain, if youwant to feel fresh and hearty at the start.

A general laugh greeted the warning, andevery one looked particularly at Bobolink, muchto his confusion.

If the shoe fits, put it on, everybody, Bobolink67remarked stoutly. As for me, Id alreadymade up my mind to be satisfied with one helpingall around. And when a Link says a thing healways keeps his word.

Well, remarked Phil Towns, wickedly, wehope that this time we wont have to refer to ourchum as the Missing Link, thats all.

That caused another mild eruption of boyishlaughter, and before Bobolink could make a causticreply a sudden loud metallic clang startledthem.

Listen, its the fire alarm! exclaimed TomBetts.

Again the sound came with startling distinctness.

Boylike, Jack and his friends forgot everythingelse just then in this new excitement. Stanhopehad a volunteer fire department, like most smalltowns in that section of the country. Stanhopewas proud of its fire laddies, who had, on numerousprevious occasions, proved their skill at fightingthe flames. Already loud shouts could beheard in various quarters, as men threw up windowsand called to neighbors.

Where can it be, do you think? demandedJud Elderkin, as the group of lads stood ready forflight, only waiting to catch some definite clue, sothat they might not start on a wild-goose chase.68

Seems to me I cn see a flickering light overyonder! cried Spider Sexton, as he pointed towardthe heart of the town.

Youre right, Spider! echoed Tom Betts.Thats where the fire lies. See how it keeps ongetting brighter right along, showing that the blazehas got a firm grip. Hey! wait for me, cant you,fellows?

Wait your granny! shouted Bobolink overhis shoulder as he fled wildly down the street.Run for all your worth, old ice-wagon. Whoop!here we come, Stanhopes fire-fighters!

There was excitement on every side of themnow. Doors opened to emit men hastily donningrubber coats and firemens hats. Women andchildren had commenced to scream at each otheracross dividing fences. Dogs began to join in thegeneral confusion by barking madly. And aboveall the increasing clamor, the brazen notes of thefire bell continued to clang furiously.

The nine scouts, being already on the street atthe time the alarm was turned in, had a big advantageover others, since they were dressed in thebeginning. As they ran on they were joined bya number of men and women who had chanced tobe up at this late hour, possibly decorating Christmastrees for the benefit of the children on thecoming morning.

69

CHAPTER X

THE ACCUSATION

Can you guess where it is, Jack? gaspedFrank Savage as he strove to keep alongside theother while running to the fire.

Just then they reached a corner, and as theydashed around it they came in plain sight of theconflagration.

Its Briggs store, fellows! shouted Frankover his shoulder.

Ten seconds later all of them were on the spotwhere already a little cluster of men and boyswere gathered, some of them near neighbors, othershaving come up ahead of the scouts.

Hey! whats this I see? Bobolink said to hischum nearest him; two of the Lawson crowdhere, dodging about and grinning as if theythought it a picnic?

Look at old Briggs, will you? cried SandyGriggs. Hes dancing around like a chickenafter youve chopped its head off.

Did you ever see anybody so excited? demanded70Bobolink. Hold on! whats that hessaying now about somebody setting his store afireon purpose?

Its a black scheme to get me out of competition!the little, old storekeeper was crying as hewrung his hands wildly. Somebody must haveknown that my insurance ran out three weeks ago,and for once I neglected to renew it! I shall beruined if it all goes! Why dont some of you tryto save my property?

Boys, it seems that its up to us to get busyand do something! exclaimed Frank Savage, immediately.

It comes hard to work for the old skinflint,declared Bobolink, but I spose were bound toforget everything but that some ones stuff is indanger, and that we belong to the scouts!

Come on then, everybody, and lets slingthings around! cried Jud Elderkin.

No matter how the fire started it was burningfiercely, and promised to give the volunteer firemena good fight when they arrived, as they werelikely to do at any moment now. Indeed, loudcries not far away, accompanied by the rush ofmany heavily booted feet and the trampling ofhorses hoofs announced that the engine, hookand ladder, and chemical companies were closeat hand.71

The nine scouts dashed straight at the storefront. The door stood conveniently open, thoughthey could only hazard a guess as to how it camesopossibly when brought to the spot with thefirst alarm of fire the owner had used his key togain an entrance.

Into the store tumbled the boys. The interiorwas already pretty well filled with an acrid smokethat made their eyes run; but through it theycould manage to see the barrels and boxes so wellremembered.

These some of the scouts started to get out asbest they could. Jack, realizing that in all probabilitythe rolls of cloth and silks on the shelveswould suffer worst from the water soon to be applied,led several of his companions to thatquarter.

They were as busy as the proverbial beaver,rushing goods outdoors where they could be takenin hand by others, and placed in temporary security.A couple of the local police force had bythis time reached the scene, and they could bedepended on to guard Mr. Briggs property as itwas gathered in the street.

The owner of the store seemed half besidehimself, rushing this way and that, and saying allmanner of bitter things. Even at that moment,when the boys of Stanhope were making such72heroic efforts to save his property, he seemed toentertain suspicions regarding them, for he oftencalled out vague threats as to what would happenif they dared take anything belonging to him.

Now came the volunteer fire-fighters, with loudhurrahs. There seemed no need of the ladders,but the fire engine was quickly taken to the nearestcistern and the suction pipe lowered. Whenthat reservoir was emptied others in the near vicinitywould be tapped, and if the water supplyheld out the fire could possibly be gotten undercontrol.

That was likely to be the last time the citizensof Stanhope would have to cope with a fire in theirmidst, armed with such old-fashioned weapons. Anew waterworks system was being installed, and inthe course of a couple of weeks Stanhope hopedto be supplied with an abundance of clear springwater through the network of pipes laid under thetown streets during the preceding summer andfall.

Mr. Forbes, the efficient foreman of the firecompany, was the right sort of man for the work.He was one of the town blacksmiths, a fine citizen,and highly respected by every one.

As his heavy voice roared out orders the menunder him trailed the hose out, the engine beganto work furiously, sending out black smoke from73its funnel, and the men who handled the chemicalengine brought it into play.

Even in that time, when dozens of thingspressed hard upon the foreman demanding hisattention, he found occasion to speak words ofencouragement to the busy scouts as they troopedback and forth, carrying all sorts of bulky articlesout of the reach of the flames.

Good boys, every one of you! he called outto them as Jack and Bobolink came staggeringalong with their arms filled with bolts of Mr.Briggs most cherished silks, youve got the makingof prize firemen in you I can see. Dontoverdo it, though, lads; and make way for themen with the hose!

By the time the first stream of water was turnedon the fire the flames were leaping upward, andthe entire back part of the store seemed to bedoomed. Being a frame building and very old ithad been like matchwood in the path of the flames.

Now watch how they slam things down onthe old fire! exclaimed Bobolink as he stoodaside unable to enter the store again since thefiremen had taken possession of the premises.The water will do more damage than the fireever had a chance to accomplish.

Wow! see them smash those windows in, willyou! shouted Jud Elderkin, as a man with a fire74axe made a fresh opening in one side of the storein order to put a second line of hose to work.

Everybody was calling out, and what with thecrackling of the hungry flames, the neighing of thehorses that had drawn the fire-engine to the spot,the whooping of gangs of delighted boys, and alot of other miscellaneous sounds, Bedlam seemedto have broken loose in Stanhope on this night beforeChristmas.

Theyve got the bulge on it already, seemslike, announced Tom Betts.

But even that doesnt seem to give Mr. Briggsmuch satisfaction, remarked Frank. There heis running back and forth between the store andthe stack of goods we piled up in the street.

I reckon he is afraid the police will steal someof the silks, chuckled Bobolink.

The fire is going down right fast now, TomBetts affirmed. Whats left of the Briggs storemay be saved. But Mr. Briggs is bound to lose aheap, and it cuts the old man to the bone to let adollar slip away from him.

To think of such a smart business man allowinghis insurance policy to lapse, and to lie unrenewedfor a whole month! exclaimed Bluff.

Got tired paying premiums for so many yearsand never having a fire, explained Jack.

As the crowd stood there the last of the blaze75yielded to the efforts of the firemen. Most of thebuilding was saved, though the business was boundto be crippled for some time, and Mr. Briggs losswould run into the hundreds, perhaps thousands,for all any one knew.

Listen to him scolding the foreman of the firecompany, will you? demanded Bobolink. Heseems to think a whole hour elapsed after thealarm before the boys got here. Why, it wasthe quickest run on record, I should say.

Here they come this way, observed TomBetts, and the foreman is trying to convince Mr.Briggs he is mistaken. He knows how excitedMr. Briggs is, and excuses anything he may say.Mr. Forbes is a big man in more ways than bulk.

Perhaps Mr. Briggs may want to scold us fornot getting more stuff out before the water wasturned on, chuckled Bobolink.

Dont answer him back if h