“How much farther?” Babe asked, limping along beside Brad.
He had attached himself like a puppy to the older boy, but found it impossible to imitate his smooth, easy gait.
“We’re almost there now,” Brad encouraged him. “Guess you aren’t used to hiking, are you?”
“My feet hurt.”
“Sure, and why wouldn’t they, with those tight shoes? Better get yourself some that fit, Babe. The Cubs do a lot of hiking.”
“Say, when do we eat?” demanded Red. The brisk walk had made him very hungry.
“Well, we could have the roast before we gather discs,” Brad said, glancing over the terrain. “It’s for the fellows to decide.”
“All in favor—” shouted Red.
Every Cub voted to halt then and there and build their fire.
Mr. Hatfield selected a suitable place at the edge of the marsh, not far from the road. Under his direction, the boys cleared away dry leaves and debris to insure that the fire could not spread.