“Trust Chunky for knowing what’s good for the inside,” retorted Ned. “However go ahead, Bob. We’re all with you.”
Warmed and exhilarated by the hot drink the travelers listened with better spirits to the patter of the rain on the awning. They got out some dry garments from the lockers and then, making up the folding bunks with which the Dartaway was provided, they spent the rest of the night in comparative comfort.
The storm was over at sunrise, and as the boys peered from the curtained cabin they gazed out on scene of beauty. They were on the shore of a broad lagoon which gave entrance into Lake Okeechobee. Behind them, some distance back, was a dense forest, and, nearer to them was the dreadful saw-grass. Over the stretch of water myriads of birds were flying, while, every now and then, a splash and a shower of glistening drops told that a hungry fish was trying to get an early breakfast.
“How do you boys feel?” asked Mr. Snodgrass.
“Much better,” announced Jerry, and the others said the same. The pain from their cuts and scratches was all gone, so quick-acting was the Indian’s remedy. After breakfast they went ashore and got the tent and camp stuff which, though much scattered, had not suffered any material damage.
“No more camping on this shore!” exclaimed Ned as he looked at the waving saw-grass.
“I must get some specimens,” the scientist said. “I have read about the peculiar properties of this plant but I never came across it before.”
“You want to put gloves on if you try to go in there,” cautioned Jerry, and this the professor did. In that way he was able to secure some of the grass for his cabinet of curiosities, which was already assuming large proportions.
“Now for Lake Okeechobee proper!” cried Bob as the boat was once more started off. They were soon out of the lagoon and in due time emerged around a point of land and beheld, stretched out before them the largest lake of Florida, a beautiful sight under the gleaming southern sun.
“Hurrah for the everglades!” cried Ned.