It was decided to start the following morning, and a supply of provisions was stored in the wagon, and before starting the Professor made the following suggestions:
"When you get there the top must be removed—that is the bows and covering——"
"Why, we haven't any covering to it now. We had to use it up for clothing."
"I had forgotten all about that. I supposed the top had been taken off when we took it out to haul in the supplies. That being the case the boat, when it is loaded in, upside down, will make a splendid top for you for camping purposes."
"How long will it take to make the trip?" inquired Tom.
"Not to exceed five or six days, because we know every step of the way, and we can push along pretty lively."
The start was not made until about ten o'clock, and Angel was on hand with his inevitable gun. They did not forget the usual accompaniments of such trips, namely, guns and ammunition, together with the spears and bolos.
"This is certainly a jolly lark," sang out Ralph, as they neared the forest. He and Tom had fully recovered from their weakened condition, and were able to take their part in any of the work which was necessary.
"Which way shall we take?" asked George.
"The road directly through the forest, for the reason it is much better than the route near the sea."