"Well, I've heard the boys use that term so many times that I was sure it was English," sighed Zan.
"But, remember, most of the slang you have acquired has been the result of hearing it from your brothers. So, I would not quote them as critics of English," laughingly said the Guide.
"Well, is the suggestion approved by all?" returned Zan.
"Yes, indeed, that goes without saying!" returned the girls unanimously.
"Then we get ice-cream hereafter, but I miss my merit!" laughed Zan, turning about and chirping to Cheokee to wake up.
The swimming that afternoon was fine, as the sun had neared Pine Tree Knob before the girls were ready. Wickee had been impatiently awaiting their appearance and the moment one of them came from the tent, the collie jumped about and yelped with glee. He accompanied the Band to the pool and watched them go in, but he sat on the grass and would not be persuaded to bathe.
"He's got to come in—we need him to give us lessons," cried Elena, starting for the dog. But Wickee must have understood, for he sprang in before any one could approach him.
He swam about enjoying the bath thoroughly and when he had circled the pool several times, he came near Zan and wanted to play. He snapped at her hair as it floated on the water, and tagging hard, ducked her under, so that she had to catch hold of his leg to make him let go.
Then, seeing Hilda and Elena trying to swim a few yards, Wickee caught hold of a floating stick of wood and carried it to Elena. The stick caught in her hair and she, too, went under.
Wickee then tried to catch Hilda's sleeve, but she was too quick for him, and was on her feet before he could get hold of her.