It was a place of surpassing beauty. The large central building, built of unpeeled logs, occupied the highest point of a large knoll which was surrounded by trees so large that their branches almost met over the roof. Nestled among the pines and spruces but a short distance away were the small log cabins containing the sleeping quarters and sitting-rooms.
“The place seems deserted,” Bob declared as the canoe slowly approached the shore where a small wharf reached out a few feet into the lake.
“Well, you didn’t expect a crowd to meet us after what we’ve been told, did you?”
“No, but somehow it doesn’t seem natural not to see a soul about.”
The canoe touched the wharf and the boys sprang out, and dragged the craft from the water.
The light breeze had failed entirely and not a sound broke the vast silence as they stood looking up at the large cabin.
“Well, let’s not stand here and moon,” Jack said after several minutes had passed.
They walked slowly up the narrow path which led from the wharf to the central house about a hundred yards distant.
“Be careful that you don’t let slip something that might give us away,” Bob cautioned as they approached the house.
“Mum’s the word. But do you suppose there’s anybody here?”