"Work, mostly, doctor. I'm getting near the age when fellow should try to bear some of the expense of keeping himself."
"What will you work at?"
"Why, reporting for 'The Blade.' I believe I can capture a good many stray dollars this summer."
"Good enough," murmured Dr. Bentley, approvingly. "But are you going to have any spare time?"
"A little, I hope—-just about enough for some rest."
"Then I'll tell you where you can take that rest," went on the medical man. "My family are going into camp for the summer, in three days. They'll be over at the lake range, on a piece of ground that I've bought there. You can get over once in a while, and spend a night or two, can't you? Mrs. Bentley charged me to ask you and Darrin," added the physician. "Belle Meade is going to spend the summer in camp with Laura."
Both boys were prompt with their thanks.
"Confound it," muttered Dr. Bentley, "I'm forgetting two thirds of my message at that. The invitation includes all of Dick & Co. Now remember you'll all be looked for from time to time, and most heartily welcome."
Both boys were most hearty in their thanks. This took care of whatever spare time they might have, for Dave, too, was to be busy a good deal of the time. He had work as an extra clerk at the express office.
Then the two girl chums came along. Dick and Dave strolled along with Laura and Belle. The other partners of Dick & Co. were soon to be seen, their narrow-brimmed straw hats close to bobbing picture hats.