homes, there remains in the hearts of most lads, and men as well,
a peculiar longing for a spell of tramp existence--it is
satisfied after a short period in the open and the wilds, when the
comforts of home appeal just as strongly to the exile.

No doubt this yearning for getting close to the heart of Nature is
an inherited trait, coming down to us from our remote ancestors,
and will never be wholly eradicated from our systems.

And these two lads could enjoy it to the full, for neither of them
had known the delights of a real home for many years--in fact
Thad, never.

They made many plans while sitting there, and as time passed and
new views were constantly opening before them, both seemed agreed
that it had been an inspiration that had caused Thad to suggest
this voyage, with the far-away Crescent City as their goal.

Thad had, indeed, done fairly creditable work in fixing up the
interior of the house upon the float.

There were a couple of bunks that in the daytime could be raised
so that they lay flat against the wall, and out of the way, since
room was at a premium inside the shanty, with a cook stove, a
table, a trunk and various other things filling space.

From numerous hooks in a couple of corners their clothes hung;
then about the little stove, which was to give them warmth and
furnish the heat to cook their meals, several frying pans and tin
kettles hung, while a tea kettle sung a soft song of contentment