"Good idea," remarked Ned, as the three gathered about the pot of stew. "After breakfast we'll draw straws to see who does the dishes and the other two will string the aerials."
"There won't be any dishes to wash," declared Harry, "if you fellows are as hungry as I am. There won't be any need."
"Maybe so," laughed Ned, helping himself to the bacon and coffee.
For a time the boys gave themselves over to a discussion of the most excellent breakfast. When they had finished, Ned said:
"Now, Jack, you and Harry get out the wireless while I clean up."
In a few moments the two were busy at their task selecting two small trees not far apart to act as masts. The equipment that had been stowed in one of the lockers was spread on the grass and they waited for Ned to return from the brook, where he had gone to wash the dishes.
"All right, Ned," said Jack. "Turn on the juice and we'll go."
Ned stepped to the aeroplane and started the engine in an attempt to operate the dynamo. No explosions followed his efforts.
"The engine's stalled!" he cried. "What's the matter?"
"Why, the spark plugs are gone!" declared Ned. "And look here," he went on, "here are tracks showing some one has been here!"