several red marks, Max insisted on applying a soothing lotion, which took
out much of the pain.

It was an evening long to be remembered by the boys. Steve's turn to
occupy the extra bunk had come around, and he felt in high feather in
consequence, while the other boys had to select their places on the
floor.

But everyone seemed in the best of humor, and the soft furs promised to
make just as good beds as they could wish.

When Max stepped out just before retiring to see how the weather promised
for the morrow, he found a clear sky, the moon just peeping into view,
and a wholesome tang in the air.

And as Max stood listening to the far-away mournful call of an owl to its
mate, and noted the flood of soft moonlight, it was no wonder he said to
himself:

"I tell you it's good to be here!"




CHAPTER VI

STEVE STARTS GAME.


"Wish you fellows luck!" said Owen.