"Boys, you remember that we are going on an exploring trip this week. So get ready. You will have to carry everything with you, so take those things that are absolutely necessary. In addition, remember that each of you boys is expected to carry his share of the grub for the week."
The boys began to plan and they went to their blankets filled with the idea of taking a real trip under old-time voyageur conditions.
"Supposing it rains?" suggested Pud.
"Well, what of it?" replied Bob. "Do you think that we're sugar and that a little rain will hurt us?"
"Don't worry very much," said Mr. Waterman. "If we have any really bad weather you will be surprised how quickly the guides will make a wood hut out of birch bark, and a few supports quickly cut in the woods."
Very early the next morning they were astir. Bob had to give many suggestions to Pud and Bill, too, but at last they had their duffle all ready so that by means of tump lines they could not only bear their own blankets and sleeping bags, but also their share of the week's supplies.
"We are going north," said Mr. Waterman.
"Let's go to the spy's cabin," said Pud.
"Ah, do," chimed in Bill. "You see, Pud and I had no part in that adventure."
"Very well," said Mr. Waterman, "it won't be a bad thing for us to go there and see how much of the place the Government agents have left."