little exercise. They haven't so much room in their end of the boat as we
have."

"Oh, of course, I don't want them to be uncomfortable," returned Ruth,
quickly.

Searching about with the lantern Russ and Paul managed to get enough dry
wood to start a blaze. It was a tiny one at first, but as the wood dried
out the flames grew apace until there was a really good camp fire.

"How's that?" called Russ, as he dropped a pile of sticks into the
flames.

"Lovely!" answered Alice.

"It isn't half so lonesome now," added Ruth. She tried to be cheerful--as
cheerful as Alice seemed, though really both girls, in their hearts, were
worrying over the effect their absence would have on their father.

"Now we've done this much, let's do a little more," suggested Paul.
"Let's brew some coffee. I fancy the girls must be chilly. I know I am."

"Good idea! Coffee for five!" cried Russ, as though giving orders to a
restaurant waiter.

"I wouldn't sleep, anyhow, after hearing that beast scream," said Ruth.
"Do make coffee."

The alcohol stove was soon lighted and the aromatic odor of the hot
beverage floated on the air. The little party made merry--as merry as