besides, we've got to make a tent first."

We then sat down and made elaborate plans for the summer. Suddenly the
distant sound of a locomotive whistle interrupted our reveries.

"Jiminy crickets!" I exclaimed. "That's the train coming through
Spalding's Cut. We've got to hustle if we are to catch it."

We were off like the wind, and a merry chase brought us to the Lumberville
depot in time to flag the train. We arrived at Lamington at half past
twelve, a trifle late for dinner, rather tired and hungry, but with a
glowing and I fear somewhat exaggerated account of our adventure for the
credulous ears of the rest of the boys.



Organizing the Society.

The camping idea met with the hearty approval of all, and it was decided
to begin preparations at once for the following summer. Dutchy, whose
father was a member of a geographical society, suggested that we form a
society for the exploration of Willow Clump Island. By general acclamation
Bill was chosen president of the society, Dutchy was made vice-president,
Reddy was elected treasurer, and they made me secretary. It was Dutchy who
proposed the name "The Society for the Scientific Investigation,
Exploration and Exploitation of Willow Clump Island." It was decided to
make an expedition of exploration as soon as we could make skate sails for
the whole society.