“Well, if it is not too much trouble——” murmured Rossmore Ford.
“No trouble at all!” cried the cadets and then it was arranged that all of the visitors should remain for the midday meal. This settled, Stuffer and the other cooks bustled about to get the repast ready.
CHAPTER XXVIII
AFTER THE TRAMPS
It was pleasant for Jack and his chums to have the Fords with them, and all spent an agreeable hour together, while waiting for the meal and during the repast. The pies and fresh rolls proved highly acceptable. The cake Stuffer wanted to cut, too, but the young major said that must be kept for supper.
“He’d put on everything in camp, if I let him,” Jack explained to the girls. “He’s the greatest eater in the school, and that’s why we call him Stuffer. But he’s a good fellow all the same,” he added, hastily.
During the meal the boys told Mr. Ford of the tramps, and what was to be done that afternoon to capture the fellows. The gentleman was much interested.
“We have lost fowls over to my place,” he said. “Perhaps these men are guilty of the depredations. If so, I think I ought to have a hand in this round-up,” and he smiled faintly.
“You can go along if you wish, Mr. Ford,” answered Jack, readily.
“Then I will. The girls can drive home with Michael.” And so it was arranged.
“Papa, I want you to keep out of harm,” said Laura, on parting. “And you boys had better take care, too,” she continued.