"Yes, for a few days more."
The court formalities did not take long, and soon the title of Mr. Ford to the disputed land was confirmed. The change in boundary lines was shown, and, had he so desired, Mr. Ford could have proceeded against Mr. Jallow. But he preferred not to, since he had not really lost any of the valuable timber.
"Besides, there is no use making Alice feel any worse than she does," said Grace. The Jallow camp had been broken up, since it was on Mr. Ford's land, and Alice, her mother and guests had gone back to Deepdale. Our friends held undisputed sway in the woods.
Christmas was approaching. There was but about a week more in the woods, when, one fine warm day—that is, warm for that time of year—the party of young people set off for a tramp in the forest.
By twos and threes they strolled on, until finally Amy and Mr. Blackford found themselves in rather a lonely part of the woods, separated from the others.
"I guess we had better be getting back," he observed with a smile. "They may be anxious about us."
"Yes," agreed Amy. "But it is so wonderful here—in the winter woods. I feel I could stay—forever!"
They walked along a narrow path. There was a movement in the trees over their heads.
"What is that?" asked Amy, suddenly.
"A bird, I guess. Did you think it was a bear?"