Again, as before, the pressure of many other things caused him to push all concern about the mysterious stranger from his thoughts.
When supper had been cooked and the scouts sat around enjoying its delights, the shadows of coming night told that another period of sentry duty was at hand.
"No Mr. Gordon to-night, I reckon," ventured Jud Elderkin, as he sat with his tin plate upon his knees, and scooped up the luscious Boston baked beans with his fork; while a steaming tin cup of mild coffee stood beside him.
Most of the boys were not used to this appetizing drink for supper; and a few of them did not take it, being satisfied with cold water; but Paul had considered the matter, and was of the opinion that a little change from the regular programme of home life would not hurt these hardy chaps, especially as they were so tired that nothing could keep them awake, once they lay down.
"I guess you're right, Jud," remarked Paul, "and I'm sorry too."
"Oh! well, we're not worrying," declared Jud, looking around at the ring of bright faces, and nodding, "are we, fellows?"
"Mr. Gordon's all right, and a mighty fine
gentleman; but we don't really need him," declared one, promptly.
"Not so you could notice it, while we've got such smart guides as Paul and Wallace along," declared Tom Betts.
"D-d-don't you g-g-go to forgetting W-w-william here; he's t-t-turned out just a w-w-wonder, you know!" burst out Bluff, vigorously waving his knife and fork.