But I'm glad you tried to help me. However, I have come about a
different matter now. How would you and your family like to spend the
winter there? How would a vacation at Snow Lodge suit you?"

No one spoke for a few seconds. All were surprised at the kind offer
made by Mr. Carford.

"A vacation at Snow Lodge!" said Mr. Bobbsey slowly.

"Do you mean it, Mr. Carford?" asked Mrs. Bobbsey.

"I certainly do," was the answer. "I have told your youngsters
something about Snow Lodge, and they seemed to like the place. I heard
them talking among themselves, on the way back here, how they'd like
to go there.

"Oh, that's all right--no harm done!" exclaimed Mr. Carford, as he
looked at the blushing faces of Nan and Bert. "I'm glad I did overhear
what you were saying. It is a shame to keep that place locked up, and
I'm just beginning to realize it.

"I don't want to go there myself, but that's no reason why others
shouldn't. So, Mr. Bobbsey, if you like, you can take your whole
family up there to Snow Lodge, near the lake, and in the woods, and
stay as long as you like. Here are the keys!" and Mr. Carford tossed a
jingling bunch on the table.