"Yes! he'll enjoy it as well as we," replied Frank.
"And I shall enjoy it a good deal better to have him with us," continued Nat. "Come here Trip, you nice little fellow, and see the best friend you have." And Trip bounded upon him, giving him as hearty a "good afternoon" as a dog can, while Nat returned the compliment by patting him upon his neck, and telling him, as he glanced a curious eye at Frank, "that he knew almost as much as his master."
"I wish that dog was mine," said Nat.
"I don't," responded Frank; "but I wish you had one just like him."
"I suppose you don't know where I can buy his brother or sister, do you?"
Frank smiled, and before he had time to reply, they were hailed by Sam and Ben Drake.
"Where now, boys?" inquired Sam.
"Bound for Prospect Hill: it is a good clear day for a fine view, and I am going to count the churches," answered Nat.
"Count your grandmothers!" sneeringly exclaimed Sam. "I would give more to roll a big stone down the steep side than I would for the best view you can get from the top."
"But don't you think the prospect from the hill is fine, Sam?"