"Not when it's banked up with snow. The hardest part of the work is yet to come."
"You mean putting on the fir brush," spoke up Tom Clifton. "Oh, that's easy enough."
"Time to talk about that when the framework is up," said John Hackett, with a laugh. "Don't make a mistake and put the brush on first."
When the four posts had been planted, the rear ones being higher, so as to give the roof a slope, others were placed across the tops and securely fastened. This was done by means of nails and ropes.
"So much for that," said Bob, in a tone of satisfaction. "Now, a lot of poles must be placed about a foot apart all around the sides and on the roof. Pitch in, fellows—stick 'em up, and be sure to leave space enough for a door."
When the framework was completed, Bob and his assistants surveyed their handiwork with pride.
"Fir brush lies pretty flat," said Bob, at length. "Begin at the bottom, boys, and weave it between the poles. Then push it down as tight as possible."
"Correct," said Hackett. "Go up front."
The boys worked rapidly, packing the brush so closely that not a crevice was visible. It required patience, but the knowledge that it would be their only shelter for the night spurred them on. When the four walls were completed, they presented quite a substantial appearance.
"Looks great," commented Bob. "We'll have a fine camp. Better get some more brush; it takes a lot of it."