didn't want that to happen for the world, so he gave up the plan of
going on the _Ice Bird_.

"I don't like the idea of that Danny Rugg going to be near us," said
Mrs. Bobbsey to her husband, when Bert had told this news. "He's sure
to make trouble."

"Perhaps not," said Mr. Bobbsey. "Bert generally manages to hold his
own when Danny bothers him."

"Yes, I know. But it always makes hard feelings. I do wish Danny
wasn't going up there."

"Well, the woods are open, and we can't stop him," said Mr. Bobbsey,
with a smile. The children had gone out to play, and the house was
quiet once more.

"There is a great deal to do to get ready," went on Mrs. Bobbsey. "But
I think the trip will do us all good. I only hope none of us take
cold."

"Don't worry," advised her husband. "I'll see Mr. Carford, and have
the fires made up a couple of days before we arrive. That will make
the house good and warm, and dry it out."

They talked over the various things they had to do in order to make
their stay at Snow Lodge pleasant, and then went out to call on some
friends.

That afternoon Bert and Nan extended the invitation to Snow Lodge to a