glance at his companion. "Oh ho! So you are really going on that little trip to the wilds?"

"Certainly," responded Brandon.

"They'll have a great time, eh, John? Awful prospect ahead for the birds and beasts of the forest."

"Wish I could go, too," drawled John. "Not taking in any new members, are you?"

"No! It's an exclusive organization—only the élite admitted," laughed Nat. "And such luck, too, to have a beautiful little boat just thrown at them, eh?"

"Wonder if any other fellows around here could ever have a piece of good luck like it," grumbled John. "I say, those motor boats must be great—no sails to bother with, or oars to pull."

"That will just suit Dave," commented Nat. "Guess you'll lie on your back and read poetry all day?"

"Very likely," smiled Dave; "and perhaps write some, too."

"Worse and worse. Hope no one will be compelled to read it." Nat gave a comical grimace, while John Hackett burst into a loud laugh.

When Dave took his departure, he could not help wondering at Nat's cheerful demeanor, and mentally concluded that he must possess a much better disposition than the Ramblers had given him credit for.

On meeting his friends at their appointed rendezvous, he was surprised to find among them the dignified Professor Hopkins, glancing over the rims of his spectacles in his usual awe-inspiring manner.

"Well, David," he said, "you have kept us waiting just a fraction over five minutes." Then he added: "Mr. Somers kindly asked me to take a trip on the motor boat. That accounts for my presence here."

Professor Hopkins was principal of the Kingswood High School, and might be described as a typical pedagogue, having a very stately bearing and a scholarly manner.

He expressed his admiration for the "Rambler," which appeared to the boys handsomer than ever, but seemed rather fearful of venturing on board.

"Are you quite sure that it is safe, Robert?" he asked, nervously. "You know I can't swim. Be careful, it's tipping over."

With much assistance, the professor was finally led safely on board, and a trip up the river began.

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