d we wouldn't care; but, John, you and I have each been
blessed with model sons, and they are entitled to privileges which it
would not be safe to grant to other boys. I confess I feel like sending
both out to Wyoming for an outing."

"Of course it would spoil the enjoyment of Jack unless he could take
Fred with him, but what excuse shall we make, Doc?"

How reluctant a father is to appear weak and too conciliatory toward his
child! These two men had virtually decided to grant the fervent wish of
their sons, but it must be done in a common-sense way. They could not
say "Boys, since you have set your hearts on this we grant it," but they
must fix upon some scheme that would made it seem a necessity that they
should go thither.

And now observe how ludicrously similar their thoughts were to those
that were agitating their offspring up stairs.

"I have been thinking," observed the physician, "of suggesting to them
that they are in need of an extension of their vacation; but what a
farce it would be! School opens next Monday, and they are the types of
rugged health, strength and activity. If I undertook to make such a
proposition I couldn't keep my face straight, and I am sure both would
burst out laughing."

"I know _I_ should, if I were present."

"Parents must not make dunces of themselves before their children," was
the philosophical remark of the physician; "some other plan must be
adopted."

Mr. Dudley leaned forward in his chair and slapped the shoulder of the
physician, his face aglow.

"I have it, Doc!"

"Let me hear it, for I admit that I am cornered."

"I will take the ground that, since I have become part owner of this
large tract of land, my first duty is to learn the truth about it. I can
write to parties out there, but they are all strangers to me, and there
is no saying how much reliance can be placed on their reports. What is
necessary is an agent who will make an intelligent and honest report;
and surely we can trust our own sons to do that."

"But, John," remarked the doctor, with his pleasant smile, "there are
scores of people right here at home who will do that for you. Suppose
Jack reminds you of the fact?"

"If he hasn't any more sense than to make such a suggestion, then, by
gracious! I'll punish him by sending some one else."

"Little fear of Jack saying anything of that nature. Even if he
undertook to do so, Fred would place his hand over his mouth. But, John,
let's understand the