In another minute all of them were bending low over the spring, testing
the delightfully clear waters of the same.

Loud were the exclamations of satisfaction that arose, for their ride had
made them thirsty, and the water was as cold as ice.

"A cracking good spot for a camp," was the verdict of the experienced
Frank, as he allowed his eyes to rove about, and take in the
surroundings.

Jerry beamed with pleasure.

"Knew you couldn't help liking it, for it seemed to cover all the
necessities of the case, as far as I know them," declared Jerry, whose
knowledge was founded pretty much on theory based on extensive reading
rather than a practical experience such as Frank had passed through.

"This little knoll will serve to shed water when it rains, as it's sure
to do some time or other; it always does when you camp; and the water is
just far enough away to keep the spring from being polluted by any refuse
from the fire. Yes, and the trees around here have not been touched by
lumbermen, so that the whole aspect is restful to the eye. I like it,
Jerry; it's a regular jim-dandy place."

"Hunk, I say!" declared Bluff, after his usual explosive fashion; but if
his manner was crude, he generally hit the nail on the head, and no one
could mistake his feelings in the matter.

He immediately squatted down and began to take his gun out of its case,
an operation Jerry eyed with alarm.