They had had many interested listeners all along the line, but the hero-worshipping look in the eyes of the two girls was particularly sweet to the boys.
“Say, Ken,” Arthur said comfortably, as he tumbled into bed, “let’s stay a week.”
“Yes, this bed is immense, isn’t it?”
“Oh, hang the bed!” Arthur growled. “You’re the most material duffer; there is something besides creature comforts in this world, after all, you know.”
“No, I am not. I appreciate a pretty audience as much as”—Ransom interrupted himself with a yawn—“you do, but whaz-zer use of discussing——”
Another yawn stopped his speech, and at the end of it he was sound asleep.
“H’m!” grunted Arthur in disgust, and he turned his back upon him.
The purchases the two made the next day weighted their backs but lightened their pockets, and Ransom had to telegraph for more money.
It took considerable resolution to break away from the pleasant society at the boarding-house and trudge the long miles to the yawl carrying a heavy pack. But they summoned up courage, and with a pleasant good-bye and a grateful “Come again” ringing in their ears, they once more started out on their adventures.
At the end of three days they were back again, Kenneth to receive his money order, which was due by that time, and the mate to help carry more supplies. That night they told more thrilling tales and took part in a candy-pull. The next day Arthur had to return alone. Kenneth’s money order had not come, so he had to wait for it.