"Jiminy crickets!" cried Bob, with arm outstretched; "look—Mountain Lake!"
"That's just what it is," said Dick, wonderingly. "Isn't it great, though? Can see just the shape and everything. The two islands look like a tiny little speck."
"Wish we had the Lick telescope," was Dave Brandon's remark. "Might see Sam and Tom on the porch or fishing in the lake. And think," he added, in tones which spoke of a troubled soul, "of all the weary tramping we've got to do before we see it again."
"Freezing snowbirds, I can't do the standing act," chattered Dick.
Their way, however, was soon barred by a narrow ledge which sloped abruptly downward on either hand.
"Never had any practice on tight ropes, and don't care to negotiate it," announced Dave, firmly.
"If you please, Chubby, we know you are right up in big words, but you'd better save 'em for Professor Hopkins," said Bob, with a smile.
"Very good," returned Dave; "but I am unalterably opposed to a continuance of——"
A series of groans stopped him.
For a few moments they contemplated in silence the dazzling depths below. Then Havens spoke up.