CHAPTER XXII
CHRISTMAS IN CAMP
With new hope in their hearts the chums followed William. They did not mind the cold or hunger now, but hurried on, intent on reaching their tents, donning dry clothing, and starting a roaring fire. Then they would have something to eat.
On the way William told them of his new position. Following his experience in New York, after he had run away from the cruel sea captain, he had worked at odd jobs. Then, on his return to his home, near Darewell, the chums’ fathers had gotten a good position for him.
Some time previous to his opportune meeting with the lost lads, William explained, he had taken service with the lumber company, which owned most of the woods where the winter camp was. It was part of the youth’s duties to go from camp to camp with documents and messages.
“It’s fine, too,” he said, “when the weather is good. When it’s too bad, I stay in camp with the men, but I must have made a miscalculation this time, for I was caught in the storm. But it happened for the best, after all.”
“That’s what,” agreed Bart. “If it hadn’t been for you I don’t know what we’d have done. Can you stay in camp with us for a while?”
“Well, long enough to have dinner, if you’ve got enough to eat.”