we had not taken so important a step without asking the Great Father
of all to guide us; for we felt that in the mystery of life we too
were but little children who knew not what should be on the morrow,
or how best to provide for it with any certainty. To our sanguine
minds there was in Bobsey's words a hint of something more than
permission to go up out of Egypt.

So it was settled that we should leave our narrow suite of rooms,
the Daggetts and the Ricketts, and go to the country. To me
naturally fell the task of finding the land flowing with milk and
honey to which we should journey in the spring. Meantime we were
already emigrants at heart, full of the bustle and excitement of
mental preparation.

I prided myself somewhat on my knowledge of human nature, which, in
regard to children, conformed to comparatively simple laws. I knew
that the change would involve plenty of hard work, self-denial and
careful managing, which nothing could redeem from prose; but I aimed
to add to our exodus, so far as possible, the elements of adventure
and mystery so dear to the hearts of children. The question where we
should go was the cause of much discussion, the studying of maps,
and the learning of not a little geography.

Merton's counsel was that we should seek a region abounding in
Indians, bears, and "such big game." His advice made clear the
nature of some of his recent reading. He proved, however, that he
was not wanting in sense by his readiness to give up these
attractive features in the choice of locality.

Mousie's soft black eyes always lighted up at the prospect of a