"Thanks, dad. I will. We'll certainly have a dandy time."
Mr. Somers smiled at his son's enthusiasm, then continued: "If your mother consents, I will give the Rambler Club its first commission. When I was there they were talking of a new road near the property. I'd like to know whether it has been built, what other improvements there are in the neighborhood, and what lumber is being cut near by. In fact, you'll make careful notes, and tell me all you see."
"First-rate, dad," exclaimed Bob; "I'll hunt up the boys first thing to-morrow, and tell them."
Bob rushed off to talk to his mother.
He found that it would be a difficult task to gain her consent. Naturally, she feared that they might encounter unforeseen dangers, besides being too venturesome.
Bob, however, with the confidence of youth, was so sure nothing could happen to them, that he at length managed to gain her consent.
Bubbling over with enthusiasm, he then called a meeting of the club, and laid the plan before them.
"Just the thing!" exclaimed Sam Randall, who had dreamed about the matter all night. "A great idea, eh, Chubby?"
"If there isn't any hard work to do," said Dave, smiling. "Can't help it, boys. I want to loaf this summer."
"You ought to be ashamed of yourself, Dave," said Bob, with mock severity.