No one laughed, though a pained expression might have been observed on the faces of three Pony Rider Boys.
"If you had thought of the rope plan earlier, it might have saved some of us from sleepless nights," declared the Professor. "What a surprise it would be to an intruder were he literally to fall into our camp headfirst."
"Haw, haw, haw!" roared Chunky. "Wha—what's the matter? Wasn't it time to laugh?" he demanded, observing the eyes of the Professor fixed reprovingly upon him.
"Yes. A most excellent plan," continued the Professor, ignoring Stacy's flippant remark.
"I'll fix it up right away," said Tad. "Pass over your ropes, fellows. If we rope anyone tonight it will be by his feet rather than over his head."
The ropes were quickly spliced and put in place, forming an almost invisible barrier about the camp. After Tad had finished his task, Stacy fell over the rope to test it, bringing down upon him a torrent of rebuke, for he had nearly pulled the barrier down.
"Don't you dare do that again," warned Tad. "I don't propose to have my work spoiled just to please your curiosity."
"Pshaw! Wasn't the rope put there to fall over?" demanded the fat boy.
"Yes. Of course, but—"
"Then, what are you growling about?"