CHAPTER XXVIII

EXCITEMENT AT THE ANCHORAGE

A deep gloom settled suddenly over the scouts after Whyn left. The
enthusiasm and excitement of the last few days had departed, leaving
them much depressed. They had little to work for now, as all hope of
winning the prize was gone. Their logs had been sold, and the money
placed in the bank where it would remain until needed for the sick
girl. The boys never for a moment regretted the step they had fallen.
There was something lacking, however, and they found it difficult to
take up their regular scout work where they had left it off. They met
at Headquarters as usual, and spent much time with the captain out on
the water, but whenever they came ashore and looked up at the window
where Whyn had so often greeted them, their hearts became heavy. They
wrote long letters to her and upon the arrival of the mail each day
they expected letters from her. But none came. Only to the captain
did Mrs. Sinclair write, telling him of their safe arrival in New York.

Mrs. Britt received a letter about the same time, which caused her to
set to work house-cleaning in a most energetic manner. Every room was
turned upside down, swept, and dusted, while the captain beat carpets
and mats until his back and arms ached. Miss Arabella was taken into
the secret, and she came to the Anchorage every day to give a helping
hand.