"That's more likely," said Tom. "Well we'll be glad enough to see Dunlop back here with a outfit. This part of the woods will soon be a town, at that rate."
"Come out where you can get a look a new crowd," urged Alf.
"If it's any one who wants to be neighborly," Reade answered with a shake of his head, "he's bound to stop in and say 'howdy.' We're going to get breakfast now."
"Then I'll be back soon, and tell you anything I can find out about the new folks," cried Alf, darting away.
But Tom raced after the lad, collaring him.
"Alf, listen to me. We're not paying you to come in on time to get your meals. You get over there by Jim's cooking outfit and be ready to take orders."
"Humph!" grunted young Drew, but he went as directed, for there was nothing else to do.
Five minutes later Mr. Dunlop turned his horse's head and rode down into the camp.
"Howdy, boys!" called the mine promoter.
"Glad to see you back, Mr. Dunlop," Tom nodded, while Harry smiled a welcome.