"I feel that way already," was Landy's quick reply; "only I'm that clumsy and slow-witted I just don't see how I'm ever going to keep up with the procession."
"Elmer says it's only keeping everlastingly at it that makes a good scout," remarked Chatz.
Evidently, from the way these boys continually quoted "Elmer," the assistant scout master must be a very popular fellow in Hickory Ridge, and those who have made a study of boy nature can understand what rare elements the said Elmer must have in his composition to make so many friends and so few enemies.
"Come around and see what I've made out of this message," said Matty just then.
It proved to be the concluding communication, and in plain picture language informed those for whom it was left that the two foxes had stopped here, made a dense smoke to attract their missing comrade, and when joined by him, the three had gone on together to the rendezvous at the old mill.
"Fine," cried Landy, when he heard what a remarkable story those rude drawings told.
"Very good—if true," admitted George.
"Well, come along and we'll prove it," laughed Matty; "for unless I miss my guess the mill is close by."
"Sure," declared Red. "I can hear the noise of water tumbling down some rocks, or over a mill dam."
Five minutes later and Chatz called out: