“Here they are!” he cried, as he pulled out the missing papers. “I have them, fellows!”
A hasty survey showed him that they were all there—somewhat stained and torn, to be sure, but as good as ever for the purpose intended.
“This is great luck!” cried Will. He looked about him. Then he saw the reason why Prince had made this place his headquarters. The former occupant of the deserted cabin had left behind a quantity of salt, and as all animals like, and need, this crystal, Prince had been attracted to the place. It was like the old “buffalo licks.” Then, too, there was shelter from storms.
“Prince, old man, you’re all right!” cried Will, as he put the papers in his pockets. By dint of a little hasty repairing the saddle could be used temporarily. It was evident that Prince had kept it on until lately, and the dangling stirrups had caused the sound like rattling chains. There was no sign of the bridle, however, but the halter would answer. Will saddled his pet, and soon had rejoined Frank and Allen, to whom he had shouted the good news. Then a hasty trip was made back to camp.
“Oh, I’m so glad!” cried Grace. “Now I can really enjoy camping and cruising. You must telephone papa at once.”
Which Will did, the whole party going over to Mr. Lagg’s store in the motor boat.
“Yes, I have the papers safe,” Will told Mr. Ford. “Yes, I’ll mail them at once. What’s that—Dodo—tell Mollie Dodo is over the operation and is going to get well? I will—that’s good news! Hurrah!”
“Oh, thank the dear Lord!” murmured Mollie, and then she sobbed on Betty’s shoulder.
“Well, I guess we are ready to start,” announced Grace. “I have the chocolates. Who has the olives?”
“Chocolates and olives—the school girl’s delight!” mocked Will,