The idea that Bobby’s father was one of the town officials appeared to put the matter in a different light, and Tim began to have great hopes that the visit might really be made.
Then the chance of catching a bear, or of getting near enough for Tip to catch one, was discussed. Tip was unfastened in order that all his beautiful proportions might be seen more distinctly, and the boys grew so excited over the subject that they forgot the flight of time, until the steamer’s whistle aroused them from thoughts of bear-killing.
“Gracious!” exclaimed Bobby, “here we’ve got home, an’ I’d forgotten we was so near.”
“Was it Minchin’s Island the boat was whistlin’ for?”
“Yes. That’s the first place she stops at after she leaves the city. Come, quick, so’s we can get my valise out of the kitchen.”
Bobby’s valise with its precious contents was still in the care of Mose, its owner not having looked after it more than once each hour, and now he was very uneasy lest he should not be able to get it in time.
Tim was so excited by his companion’s fears that he fastened Tip as quickly as possible, not noticing in his haste that the knot was only half tied, and could easily be unloosened.
The valise, with apparently as much in it as when it was intrusted to the old darkey’s care, was soon in Bobby’s possession, and the two boys went on the upper deck, from which the landing was to be made.
Here, standing by the rail, Bobby pointed out the various objects of interest on the island, not forgetting the woods in which he was positive Tip would one day roam in search of the ferocious bear.