matter before we say anything to them. Your plan of
sending out Jack to inspect the property is a good one. It sounds
business-like, and must strike them that way; so that difficulty is
removed. You and I don't know anything about the region, nor the best
time for hunting game, but it is fair to believe that the month of
October will be suitable. Suppose we keep them in school throughout
September, and then give them a month's leave of absence, to examine and
report upon your property. If all goes well, they are to appear here,
ready to resume their studies on the first Monday in November."

"I can suggest no improvement upon that. No doubt the young rascals are
up-stairs, plotting how to bring us round to their way of thinking.
Suppose you call them down, Doc. Shall you or I unfold our brilliant
scheme?"

"You, by all means, since the property is yours."

The physician opened the door of his office and called "Fred!" There was
instant response, "Yes, sir." "I would like to see you and Jack for a
few minutes in the office."

"Yes, sir; we are coming."

And a minute later they arrived, handsome, glowing and expectant.

"Mr. Dudley has something to say to you, Jack."

Both boys turned their faces expectantly toward the gentleman named, who
crossed his legs, cleared his throat and looked very grave.

"My son, Doctor Greenwood and I have been discussing that property of
mine in the new State of Wyoming. We have agreed that I ought to learn
something about it before selling my interest in the same. To secure
such reliable information it is necessary to send some one thither whom
we know to be truthful and honest. The doctor thinks, and I agree with
him, that the right one to go is you, Jack--that is, if you have no
objections."

The parent paused for a reply, and Jack, as if the matter was too
important to be disposed of hastily, answered:

"I don't think of any objections just now, father."

"Very well; I am glad to hear it. If any occur to you, you will let me
know, so that I can engage some one else."

"I'll let you know at once, if I think of any."

"Very well. Our plan is that you and Fred shall resume your studies next
Monday, and keep right at them to the close of the month. On the first
of October you will start for Wyoming----"

"Alone?"

"I am surprised, my son, that you should interrupt me with that
question. Do you suppose I would allow you to spend a month in that wild
region without a compani