“You almost did, once,” Ben chuckled.
“Here she comes. Stand back!” cried the agent, as the great whistling engine made its appearance around a curve.
The boys shook hands with Ben and Westbrook and then stood on the rear platform of the last car and waved their hats at the two broad-shouldered men left behind when the train pulled out for home.
Two days later they were met at the great city terminal by their fathers. Both Dr. Williams and Mr. Rand were surprised and delighted at the improvement in the boys. They took critical note of the firm, bronzed skin, the broadened shoulders and deepened chests, the direct, keen glance of the eyes, and, above all, the erect, confident carriage and free, swinging stride. The inspection ended in approval—Ben had molded well the raw material placed in his hands, and the result was a credit to him.
The experiment was a success; the theory was proven. The lads had returned with interest on the investment. They had gained not only in health and strength, but in much besides. They had a finer, clearer, broader view of life and the living. They had learned peace and beauty and quietness from God’s temple, the wilderness. They had gained strength from the pine-scented air, courage from exposure to hardship and peril, resourcefulness from dependence upon themselves, and a sound knowledge of sound truths from honest old Ben.
“By Jove, Doctor, your plan has worked out wonderfully,” declared Mr. Rand. “I wouldn’t have believed it possible. Why, look at George; he is fit for the freshman crew.” And the proud father was delighted at the prospect, for he, too, had worked from freshman to ’varsity oarsman in his college days.
“Well, you think it has done them as much good as your tutoring trip through Europe, do you?” laughed the Doctor.
“More!” declared Mr. Rand, enthusiastically. “In fact, I’m inclined to agree to that Western proposition of yours for next summer, now that I’ve seen the results of this trip.”
“What is that?” demanded the boys, aroused at the idea of a future trip to the wilds.
“Never mind,” laughed Dr. Williams, winking slyly; “we’ll give you a surprise when the time comes.”