"It will be just the outing on horseback that I have been looking for," said Sam. "I hope we have nothing but clear weather."
"We ought to have, after such a storm," said Fred. "See how clear the sky is to-day."
"That trip to the plantation on horseback will take about five days," said Dick. "That will make quite an outing."
"Puts me in mind of our trip out West," said Tom. "What are we going to do when night comes on? Go to some ranch, or make our own camp?"
"Oh, let us go into our own camp!" cried Songbird. "It will be such fun!"
"That's the talk," chimed in Sam.
"We can camp out on the way if the weather proves good," decided Dick. "But if it rains good and hard, I reckon all of you will be glad enough to get under cover."
"Pooh! who's afraid of a little rain," put in Fred. "Why, that will make us grow!"
So the talk ran on, and finally all arrangements were completed for the trip inland. Aleck Pop was sorry he could not accompany the boys, but Dick thought it best that he remain behind.
"You know how Captain Starr is, Aleck—a bit queer at times. The Dora is a valuable craft, and I shall feel safer if I know you are helping to keep watch over her."