“All right, that’s one you owe me, girls, remember that,” answered the old hunter and traveler.
They spent over an hour at the table, enjoying 28 the bountiful spread provided, and telling stories and jokes. The boys were in their element, and kept the girls laughing almost constantly.
“We’ll be back to the grind day after to-morrow, so we had better make the best of it,” was the way Dave expressed himself.
After the meal, Dunston Porter went out to give directions concerning the touring car, and Phil accompanied him. This left our hero and Roger alone with the two girls. They sought out the hotel parlor, which they found deserted, and Dave and Jessie walked to the far end, where there was an alcove, while Roger and Laura went to the piano.
“Dave, won’t it be hard work to go back to the grind, as you call it?” questioned Jessie, as both stood looking out of the window.
“In a way, yes, but it’s what a fellow has got to expect, Jessie,” he returned. “A chap can’t get an education without working for it.”
“I trust you pass with high honors,” the girl went on, with a hopeful look into his face.
“I’ll try my best. Of course, I’ve lost some time—going to Cave Island and all that. Maybe I’ll flunk.”
“Oh, Dave, that would be—be––” Jessie could not go on.
“As soon as I get back I’m going to buckle down, and get to be a regular greasy grind, as 29 they call ’em. I’ve made up my mind to one thing I’m afraid the others won’t like.”