After all it was a sort of lark to be off duty and go bumming
around the fairgrounds without a single thing to worry about
except where the formula was. Certainly if the Wolf had it, it
had gone off for a little airing, because as the boys came out of
the Colonel's office they saw Captain DuChassis being driven out
of the fairgrounds in an automobile. They could scarcely give
chase, and they had been left out of the raid that was planned.
So there was nothing for them to do but chase around and see
things, and the sun was setting when the boys turned into the
walk leading under the double row of fir trees, up to their
house. Home, not seen for four days, looked good to the Potter
twins. The dining room was lighted, and their father sat reading
the evening paper. Mrs. Potter was "dishin' up." She made swift
journeys to the kitchen, and returned each time with both hands
full of steaming dishes. The boys took a look, and made a dash
for the door.

The Colonel had talked wisely and well. Porky attacked his
father from the rear, and strangled him in a bear's hug, knocking
off his glasses.

Beany had his mother round the neck too, but not so roughly.

He kissed her hurriedly on the ear and then on the check and
lips. Then he released her as Porky came bolting around the
table. Mr. Potter, grinning with happiness, was feeling on the
floor for his glasses; Mrs. Potter's eyes bright with joy.

"Why, how you do take on! Dear me suz!"