"Let's have a good-natured laugh all around and forget the whole thing."
That relieved the awkwardness of the situation. After that a watermelon was cut and brought to the tables.
"Gridley, ahoy!" called a voice across the dark waters.
"Who's there?" called Dick.
"Preston High School Canoe Club. May we visit your camp?"
"Shall I invite them over?" asked Dick, looking at Mrs. Bentley and then at the girls.
Receiving their consent, he called out:
"Come in, Preston High School! Welcome!"
A soft splashing of paddles showed where the visitors were coming in to shore. Dan Dalzell taking the camp lantern, ran to meet them.
A moment later six Preston lads were stepping ashore, one after the other. Dick, having excused himself at table, came forward also to greet them.