"Well, the ham would take quite a long time to cook. I guess maybe we'd have to start in cooking right away to get finished in time."
"The boys ought to be having just the same sort of meal that we do. Or else it wouldn't be fair, because some things take longer to cook than others, and you can't hurry them, either."
"Oh, I remember now that Miss Eleanor spoke about that. That's one of the rules."
"I believe we're getting near, for the trail is rising pretty sharply now," said Dolly.
"That's so. See how hilly it is getting to be. It's quite clear on top of the peaks, I believe. I wonder if we'll be able to see them on the other peak and if they'll be able to see us?"
"We'll see the smoke, anyhow. There's nearly half a mile between the two peaks, Miss Eleanor said."
"Come on, let's hurry. I'll be dreadfully disappointed if they get their fire started first."
"So will I."
Then the ascent grew so sharp that for a time they needed all their breath for the climb before them. But the prospect of reaching their destination prevented them from being weary; they were too excited by this strange sort of race in which the contestants could not see one another at all.
"I think this is splendid!" panted Bessie. "This being on our honor. Either side could cheat, and the other wouldn't know it—but neither side will."