"Boys that can kill a bobcat can kill a bear, if they try," answered Sid Todd.
The boys were in great delight, and spent every minute of their time in getting ready for the trip. Guns were cleaned and oiled, and they sorted and packed their ammunition with care. Mr. Endicott had a compact camping outfit, consisting of dishes and cooking utensils, and the little tent, and these were made into convenient packs for the horses, and the provisions were likewise strapped up properly. Todd aided in all, and the lads had to admire how deftly he put things together so that they might be carried with comparative ease.
"He has been there before, that is plain to see," said the senator's son.
"A fine man," declared Dave, heartily. "I shall feel perfectly safe with him along."
The girls were sorry to see the boys go, yet every one of them wished the lads the best of luck.
"Please don't run into any danger!" pleaded Jessie.
"Don't shoot at a bear unless you know you can get away from him if you miss him," cautioned Laura.
"And, above all, don't get lost in the mountains," was Belle's advice.
It had looked like rain the night before, and the boys were worried, not wishing to depart in the wet. But the sun came out full in the morning, and their spirits at once arose. Roger could not contain himself and whistled merrily, while Phil did a double shuffle while waiting for breakfast. Dave was also happy, although sorry that the girls, and especially Jessie, would not be along.
"All ready!" cried Todd, half an hour later, when the horses had been brought around to the piazza.