Ned let the lumps drop into his companion's cup, but from such a height that Chunky had to dodge as the coffee flew up.
He wiped a few drops of the coffee from his face, deliberately filled his cup to overflowing with milk, then handed the can to Walter.
"I guess Chunky doesn't need any of our help. He is pretty well able to take care of himself," laughed Tad.
"Delicious," breathed the Professor, sampling his cup of steaming liquid.
"Who, Chunky?" asked Ned quizzically.
"Certainly not the coffee," replied the Professor in a tone of reproof.
The meal was finished with many a jest and the pack divided up into bundles so that each should have his share to carry, after which the lads took up their return tramp.
They arrived at the mountain trail shortly before noon.
"Where's the guide?" asked Tad, glancing about.
"Probably asleep somewhere," replied Ned. "He's almost as big a sleepy head as Chunky."