birds and plants. Unfortunately the foxes' den appeared to be
deserted that spring, and Ralph felt a pang of regret at the thought
that perhaps the foxes that usually took up their abode there had
fallen victims to his traps. "I hope I won't have to set any more
traps for the wild creatures of the woods and streams," he said to
himself. "I see now it's much better sport to get snapshots of them."

Presently the glitter of the little lake among the trees attracted
them, and they pushed on through the thickets down to the shore.

"Wonder if it's too cold for a swim?" said Tom, eagerly.

"A quick plunge won't do us any harm," assented Rawson. "Shall we
try it, boys?".

All were heartily in favor of the idea. In a few minutes they had
stripped off their clothes and waded into the water.

"Don't go far out!" cautioned the young Scout Master. "The water's
none too warm at this time of year, and anyone of us might get a
cramp suddenly without a moment's warning."

While the boys amused themselves by racing close to the shore, he
swam ahead of them, but no further out. Rounding a wooded point
that jutted out into the lake, he found, to his surprise, that he
was facing Loon Island. He had no idea that he had come so far.
The boys were not in sight, but their shouts and laughter assured
him that they were all right, obeying his instructions; so he struck
out toward the little island. A few vigorous strokes brought him
to the shore---he could almost have waded across from the point---and