approaching the deserted mansion; though for several minutes afterwards
the sound of frequent collisions with trees, and stumbles over hidden
vines proclaimed that their panic showed no signs of abating.




CHAPTER III

TAKING POSSESSION


"Don't all laugh at once," cautioned the scout master, knowing that an
outburst was imminent.

Understanding what was meant, the boys threw themselves down upon the
ground and gave way to merriment that was none the less overpowering
because it had to be indulged in "with the soft pedal on," as Arthur
artfully expressed it.

While they, were still enjoying themselves in this fashion, Monkey
Stallings joined them. He had a huge grin on his rather odd-looking,
face, showing that he felt fully satisfied with his recent fine work.

"Say, did I do the thing up in good style, boys?" he demanded.

"I should say you did, Monkey!" burst out Billy. "Makes me think of
one of Aesop's fables I used to read ever so long ago, about the lion
and the donkey out hunting together."