Paul waited to see how his suggestion took.

The boys stared at each other in amazement. It is doubtful whether a
parcel of wide-awake lads ever before had such a novel proposition made
to them. And perhaps it was the sensational character of the appeal that
stirred them more than any desire to return good for evil.

"Count me in that job, Paul," said Jack positively.

He had timed his interruption with exceeding cleverness. Boys are like
sheep, and given a bell wether they will follow blindly where the leader
goes.

"Me too!" cried Bobolink, quickly.

"Ditto! I'm for the game just as Paul says!" exclaimed Nuthin'.

And every one in the crowd followed suit, laughing at the idea of their
turning the tables on the old farmer in such an unheard-of fashion;
though several doubtless secretly scoffed at the project, and only agreed
because it seemed to be a necessary evil if they wanted to become Boy
Scouts.




CHAPTER VII

THE TRAP THAT PELEG SET