There was a moment of silence and the two boys felt some annoyance. But Ted spoke up.
“There used to be some silly stories about that,” he smiled. “But they were just old women’s tales! We’re too sensible to give any thought to anything like that. If twenty fellows couldn’t scare away a poor little ghost or witch or whatever it is they used to say hung around the place, then we’d better go camping over in the City Park!”
There was a laugh at this and Plum muttered something, but no attention was paid to him. There was a scene of confusion as packs were slung and then the big truck shook as the boys swarmed over the sides and into it. The smaller truck with the supplies had already started off.
It had been agreed that Ted would drive the big truck to the camp and that the driver of the supply truck would drive it back. The little truck was the property of the club and would remain in camp with them, in case they wished at any time to drive to town for fresh food. The big truck, which was a hired one, would go back to the city and return at the end of the month for the boys.
“Buck, maybe you had better get into the body of the truck and see to it that none of these fellows get to fooling and fall off,” Ted said, as the boys pushed and jostled in the truck. “I’d like to have you drive along with me, but we had better have somebody on duty back there.”
“Guess you’re right,” nodded Buck. “I’d like to drive alongside of you, but I’ll get back.” He tossed his pack on board and climbed into the truck. “All shipshape back here!” he sang out.
Ted warmed up the engine, shaking hands in farewell with Mr. Calvert. “Lots of good luck!” smiled the lawyer.
“Thanks! I’m sure we’ll have a fine time!”
The president leaned nearer. “If there is any trouble, Thorn, let me know at once.”
“I will,” Ted nodded, “but I’m sure everything will be fine. Goodbye.”