“We expect to,” Mr. Livingston returned.

“Well, have a good trip,” Walz said, with a show of friendliness.

The Scouts waited outside the cabin until the motel owner was beyond view. Then Willie remarked that Walz had neglected to lock the door.

“That indicates he’s gone through poor Old Stony’s possessions from A to Z,” Jack declared. “He’s satisfied there’s nothing of value here.”

“Even so, it would do no harm to look around ourselves,” War proposed. “Walz could have missed something.”

Mr. Livingston vetoed the suggestion. “No, War. This is Stony’s cabin. It ought to be locked.”

“Let’s all get to bed,” Willie urged. “Look at the horizon. It’s nearly dawn.”

After a bit of debate, the Scouts decided to try to catch an hour of sleep before breaking camp. Accordingly, forgetting the unlocked cabin door, they retired to their tents. Everyone slept soundly.

When Jack finally opened his eyes, a hot sun was beating down on the canvas. He was alone in the tent. Peering out, he sniffed the aroma of frying eggs. The others were up ahead of him.

“Gosh, am I lazy!” he exclaimed. “What time is it?”

“Ten to nine,” Willie told him as he turned the eggs. “You were sleeping like a babe, so we didn’t call you.”

Jack quickly dressed and helped Mr. Livingston strike and pack the two tents. By that time Willie had breakfast ready to serve.

“We’re making a late start,” the Scout leader said, looking ruefully at his watch. “But we all needed sleep. Last night was rough.”

“Wonder how Old Stony is getting along?” Jack speculated. “Any word?”

“I went up to the office to inquire,” Ken replied. “The place was locked up. No sign of Walz. He’s probably still in bed.”

“I sort of hate to pull out of here without knowing Stony’s okay.”

“Sure, we all do,” Ken agreed soberly. “After we’re packed and ready to hit the road, what say we stop somewhere to telephone the hospital?”

“Good idea,” Mr. Livingston approved. “I was going to suggest it myself.”

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