the interscholastic contest next fall. He can talk about anything, and
has 'pep,' I tell you. And Mr. Allen is a nature student. Gee! won't we
have a circus talking bugs and flowers and birds. Fat draws and does
lettering. O yes, and Ham--I mustn't leave out Ham--he is the Billikin of
the crowd. When you feel down in the mouth or blue, just look at Ham and
it makes you laugh. He likes everybody except the girls, and everybody
likes him. He knows more funny stories than all the rest put together.
Ham's the one that always gets the fire ready to light and passes the
'eats,' he's--"

"Well, son, I think you are fortunate in being able to find such
companions, and in having such a place as the Association to spend your
leisure time. I think it is a great thing. I hope you will make the
most of the opportunity. I have about decided we had better stay here
through the winter, for I am very sure Aunt Lucy can not last until
spring. I feel so sorry for Uncle."

* * * * *

Friday came at last, and was one of those grand June evenings when
everything seemed to be bursting with the love of life. The new green
leaves danced in the breeze, as if saying, "See, I'm back again!" Here
and there a fragrant fruit tree gave forth its odor from snowy blossoms,
and innumerable spring insects flocked to the arc lights at the corners.

It was a happy, healthy crowd of boys that boarded the street car for
Manitou. High-boots, sweaters, slouch hats, cameras, and a plentiful
supply of good food. From the hip-pockets of the trousers tallow candles
showed, and one fellow carried a good supply of mason's cord, wound upon
a paddle. Then there was the coffee-pot, which was really an honorary