"I am fond of a practical joke, as you know," he said, with a twinkle in his eye, "and I must confess that I practiced an innocent deception. Let me add to my introduction—graduate of Harvard, 1885. I expect, soon, to be a professor."
"Professor Griffin!" gasped Bob. "Was I ever more surprised in my life?"
The former trapper sank back in his chair.
"Appearances are often deceptive," he said. "Clothes make the man, and suitable surroundings will add to any illusion."
"But haven't you lived a long time in the woods?" asked Bob.
"Oh, yes! Off and on for years. You see," he continued, with a laugh, "I am a zoölogist and naturalist who believes in studying nature at first hand."
"But didn't I hear you say once," asked Bob, "that you hadn't as much book learning as you wanted?"
"Exactly—and neither have I. There is such a vast amount of knowledge to be gained, that even the most learned are sometimes discouraged."
"And how in the world did you manage to keep up that backwoods talk, even when the furs were taken?" asked Bob.
"Well, the illusion pleased me, and, as I felt sure of seeing you some time in town, I kept it up, picturing in my mind your surprise. I must say, though, on the occasion when you and Hackett were lost, only my strong conviction that you would come out right enabled me to keep it up."