"We will get Colonel Snow to start us," added Jack.
"Agreed!" cried the others.
"And we will see him just as soon as we go back."
"And start the thing right away."
Talking enthusiastically over their plans, the boys pulled the boat in to the shore.
"See that curious-looking house up there," broke in Don. "I didn't know there was anybody living up here."
"House! Where?" asked Rand.
"There, among the trees. It is covered with bark so you would hardly notice it."
"Oh, yes, looks like a big tree," said Jack. "Must be a hermit."
"But I thought hermits always lived in caves," demurred Pepper.