Several days passed, and during that time the smashed automobile was taken away. Mr. Garrison was soon able to sit up and enjoy his meals. He spent many a pleasant hour with Colonel Colby, the two talking over their numerous adventures while they had been classmates with the older Rovers.
“I came to give Gif and his chums a little surprise,” said Mr. Garrison.
“Well, you gave them a surprise, all right enough,” broke in Colonel Colby, with a twinkle in his eyes.
“It wasn’t that kind of surprise, Larry,” answered Mr. Garrison. “I had quite something else in my mind,” and then he mentioned what it was.
“That’s fine, Fred! Fine!” exclaimed the owner of the Hall. “I’m sure that Gif will be delighted, and his chums too. I know that that whole bunch of boys was tickled to death when Songbird Powell invited them out to Big Horn Ranch.”
CHAPTER VIII
THE FOUR-OARED RACE
Following the conversation between Colonel Colby and Mr. Garrison Gif called upon his father and the two held a talk lasting the best part of an hour. When the son was ready to leave his face glowed with satisfaction.
“It’s dandy of you, Dad! Just dandy!” he said, catching his parent by the hand. “And won’t the others be surprised!”
“Are you going to tell them now, Gif? Before I arrange those details?”