Every one stopped short and listened. Sure enough—there was a mingling of many voices.
“Some one from Freedom using our camp?” wondered Ruth.
“More likely a regiment of visitors!” said Joan.
“That’s just about it! All our families and relatives unto the third and fourth generation thereof,” laughed Julie.
“Perhaps they came for dinner!” gasped Mrs. Vernon, her sense of hospitality having a chill when she thought of the dinner for five only.
“If they didn’t bring their own dinners, they’ll have to sit and watch us eat ours,” declared Ruth.
The hikers hastened to reach camp after this, and the first glance caused them to catch hold of each other for support. There, in possession of their sacred precincts, was such a crowd of family and friends that it seemed there could be little room for the real owners.
“Did you ever! I think they might, at least, have asked if they would be welcome!” cried Ruth, with annoyance.
“They must have missed us a lot,” laughed Julie.
The visitors now spied the scouts, and John gave a shout. “Hello! Did we surprise you? This was my idea, girls!”