"Bully for you, Frank! You always look on the bright side of things,
while Jerry tries to dash a fellow's spirits. Things have come out
pretty well, after all. We've had some strange experiences, come through
them all in decent shape, and to cap the whole thing I've captured some
dandy views. I can hardly wait to develop them."

"Go ahead, then. Plenty of water at hand for washing off the hypo,"
suggested Jerry wickedly.

By the time the twenty minutes had expired the water had subsided so far
that the imprisoned chums were able to lower themselves from the tree
and once more resume their journey.

Of course, they were an uncomfortable lot, being soaked to the skin,
and, as Will declared, looking like a lot of hoboes. Brisk exertion kept
them from feeling cold, however; but they were one and all delighted to
set eyes on the familiar tents of the home camp.

Their welcome was a warm one, for Mr. Mabie had been more or less
worried concerning them, owing to the forest fire and the fierce
cloudburst.

"We hoped you were safe, and tried to believe it, boys; but at the same
time, even a veteran hunter in these parts might have been caught
napping, and I tell you we're mighty glad to see you back safe and
sound. Now, tell us how it happened," was Mr. Mabie's greeting as he
squeezed a hand of each.

"If you mean the fire, sir, we know nothing about it. We have not struck
a match since leaving here, and only Bluff shot once. The fire came from