“You’ve been telling Warner things about me that aren’t true!” he declared.
Ken and Jack were amused by the accusation. It did not seem deserving of a reply.
“Get this!” Walz snapped. “I want that map, and I mean to get it! I’m warning you not to interfere! If you do—”
“If we do—what?”
“You’ll find out!” Walz blustered. “I’m fed up with your meddling. Take my advice and drive on!”
“We like the scenery,” Jack retorted, “so we’re staying.”
After the early chores were done, Warner told his visitors he would take them over to see Tarta Lake.
“It’s only a little hike,” he said. “Figured we could tote our grub up there and cook supper under the stars.”
The Explorers fell in with the plan at once. Walz seemed annoyed, but he kept his thoughts to himself.
They set off single file up a gentle slope, Warner leading the way. He had an easy, fast, smooth stride, which the Scouts deliberately imitated. Walz kept up at first, then fell to the end of the line. When the climb became more difficult—rocky and steep—Walz sat down to empty gravel from his shoes.