At last the day came when the Curlytops were to go camping on Star Island. The boat was loaded with the tents and other things, and two or three trips were to be made half-way across the lake, for the island was about in the middle. Nicknack and his wagon were to be taken over and a small stable made for him under a tree not far from the big tent.
"All aboard!" cried Ted, as he and Jan took their places in the first boat. "All aboard!"
"Isn't this fun!" laughed Janet, who was taking care of Trouble.
"Dis fun," echoed the little chap.
"I'm sure we'll have a nice time," said Mother Martin. "And your father will like it when he, too, can camp out with us."
"I hope the tramps don't bother you," said Mr. Crittendon, who had come to help Grandpa Martin get his camping party ready.
"Oh, we're not afraid of them!" cried Ted.
"Well, be careful; that's all I've got to say," went on the farmer.
"I'll let you have my gun, if you think you'll need it," he said to
Grandpa Martin.
"Nonsense! I won't need it, thank you. I'm not afraid of a few tramps. Besides I sent one of my men over to the island yesterday, and he couldn't find a sign of a vagrant. If any tramps were there they've gone."
"Wa-all, maybe," said the farmer, with a shake of his head. "Good luck to you, anyhow!"