As to the location of their camp, they had settled on it only after a strenuous debate. Fenn and Frank were for going to the one where they had previously had such good luck hunting wild turkeys, but Bart and Ned wanted to go to a less frequented part of the State, where larger game, such as an occasional bear or deer, could be had, and, in the end they carried their point, though it meant a longer trip, and necessitated going by railroad.
Finally all was in readiness, the last of the packing had been done, good-byes had been said, Alice had made up a little medicine chest for her brother, and Jennie Smith had even composed an “original poem” in honor of the occasion.
Jed Sneed had taken the camp stuff to the express office in his big sled, and was to come back for the four chums, who carried their guns with them. The storm had hardly ceased, and there was plenty of snow on the ground.
“What’ll you boys do if you get snowed in?” asked Mr. Keene as he watched his son and the others getting in Jed’s sled, for the start was made from Bart’s house.
“Oh, we’ll wait until it thaws,” replied Ned.
“Take care of yourselves,” admonished Mrs. Keene.
“And drink hot ginger tea in case you get wet,” ordered Alice, with her most professional air.
“All right,” chorused the boys.
“All ready?” asked Jed, as he looked around.
“All ready!” replied Bart.