next meeting, Paul?"

"To-night, and once more at the barn where we were first. This time
I figure on having nearly twenty present, and that will make things
interesting."

"Same hour as before--eight o'clock?" asked Bobolink.

"Yes. And if any of you feel that you are qualified to take the
examination for the first degree, so as to become real tenderfeet in the
Scouts, why, I'll be in trim to put you through your sprouts," announced
the leader.

"That hits me," declared William; "for I've been studying to beat the
band, and believe I'll pass muster with flying colors. Me for the
tenderfoot class!"

"And I've just used up a whole ball of twine tying all those measly
knots," declared Nuthin'; after which his face brightened when he added:
"but I can do every one just like an old jack tar. My dad was once a
sailor you know, and that's where I've got the bulge on the rest of you.
So-long, boys; I'm going home to try again."




CHAPTER VI

A STRANGE SUGGESTION