"Until the pudding arrives," smiled Clara.
"But no one may think of having pudding yet," insisted Mr. Ross, with mock gravity. "I forbid that anyone should have pudding, or even think of it, until we have tried the one really delicious dish of this feast."
"And what may that be?" called Dr. Bentley.
"The best part of the cow," replied Mr. Ross.
"A big rib roast, served with cracked bones with the marrow cooked in them. Come along, Bill. We'll bring back the roast and the marrow."
Ross and his man moved briskly out of sight. Only a few moments had passed when Mr. Ross' voice was heard from the clearing:
"Thieves! The rib roast is gone—-so is the marrow!"
Dick glanced swiftly at his chums. The same idea was in the minds of all the members of Dick & Co.
"Our friend, the prowler, has been here," muttered Prescott, rising hastily. "This thing has got to be stopped. Come along, fellows! Friends, please excuse us for a few moments."
At a dog trot Dick led the way to the clearing. There stood Mr.
Ross, looking the picture of indignation.