"And such a one, too!" added Giant.

"And of course we all believe it," came from the doctor's son.

"Well, I had to do something---to help pass the time," said Whopper
a bit sheepishly.

"Sure you did," said Snap heartily. "It's all right, Whopper---only
don't ask us to believe such a story."

"Is anybody going to stand guard to-night?" asked Giant to change
the subject.

"What's the use?" questioned Snap. "I don't think anybody or
anything will come to disturb us."

"Well, you can never tell," said Shep slowly. "But if you fellows
don't care to stand guard we'll let it go at that."

"Oh, it's for you to say, Shep---you are leader this trip."

"Well, I guess we can all turn in."

And turn in they did about nine o'clock, with the understanding
that they were to have breakfast at six in the morning and continue
their journey as soon after that as possible.

Whether he felt the responsibility of leadership or not it would
be hard to say, but certain it is that the doctor's son did not
sleep near as soundly as did the others. He was very restless,