CHAPTER VIII

TELLING ABOUT EDEN


Never was a traveller from a remote foreign clime listened to with
more breathless interest than I as I related my adventures at our
late supper after my return. Mousie looked almost feverish in her
excitement, and Winnie and Bobsey exploded with merriment over the
name of the mountain that would be one of our nearest neighbors.
They dubbed the place "Schunemunks" at once. Merton put on serious
and sportsman-like airs as he questioned me, and it was evident that
he expected to add largely to our income from the game he should
kill. I did not take much pains to dispel his illusions, knowing
that one day's tramp would do this, and that he would bring back
increased health and strength if nothing else.

No fairy tale had ever absorbed the children like the description of
that old house and its surroundings; and when at last they were
induced to retire I said to my wife, after explaining more in
practical detail the pros and cons to be considered: "It all depends
on you. If you wish I will take you up the first pleasant day, so
that you can see for yourself before we decide."

She laughed as she said, "I decided two minutes after you arrived."

"How is that?"