“Trust Dick not to want to carry too heavy a pack,” laughed Phil.
“That’s nothing to laugh about,” protested Dick hotly, “that’s just good common sense. It’s——”
Then he perceived that his chums were ragging him a bit so he grinned and turning on his heel started for the door, followed by the two laughing boys.
The buying of the groceries took but a short time, and soon the bags were packed and they were ready for their trip.
Goodbyes were said to Nate and Mr. Boone, and the trio set out on their long hike.
“Good luck, boys, and I sincerely hope that you find what you are looking for, because my affairs are in a ticklish position just at present and unless I find the cause of the disturbance and thefts at the camp, I will be in a very serious way,” said Mr. Boone as he shook hands with the three boys.
“Guess they can settle the matter if anyone can,” remarked Nate as he bade the boys goodbye. “They have done some pretty fine work for boys lately and I look to see them get to the nigger in the wood-pile and roust him out pretty shortly. Then mebbe they can come back and take over the patrol for the rest of the summer.
“We’re good for about eight miles tonight, fellows,” said Garry as they started, “for it will be at least three hours before it gets too dark to walk any farther,” said Garry.
“Have you the route all set in your mind?” asked Phil.
“Yes, I looked over a road map very carefully this morning, and the manager at the hotel garage gave me some other directions so that we cannot go very far wrong,” answered Garry.