while Hazel did much toward discovering things that she declared all
the girls ought to know, for Hazel's happiness was ever in obtaining
knowledge.

The boys had almost lost hope of getting back their canoe. They had
searched the lake from shore to shore, offered rewards and had gone
through the rest of the lost formula, but the boat was not returned.

Cora kept to herself her suspicions about Jim Peters. She also said
nothing of the ring that was in the purse when it left her hands,
but not in it when the purse was returned to her.

It was a splendid morning for a trip on Cedar Lake, and although
Belle and Hazel had planned a trip to the woods, Cora and Bess were
going out in the Petrel.

Passing Center Landing, Cora called a pleasant good morning to Ben,
who sat on the end string piece, his feet aiming at the water and
his broad brimmed hat caught on halo fashion at the back of his
neck.

"Oh, I must ask him something," said Cora, suddenly turning her boat
toward the wharf. She drew near enough to speak quietly.

"Ben," she said, "where is that shanty you told me about--Jim
Peter's place?"

"Lands sake miss! you ain't goin' there?" asked the man in some
alarm.