reeping up at the point Paul's heading for,"
announced Tom Betts. "That must come from the cabin we heard had been
built here since we had our outing on the lake."

"We were told that it stood close to the mouth of the creek which we
have to ascend some miles," remarked Jack. "And this man is the one we
think to leave our boats in charge of while away in the woods."

"I only hope then that he'll be a reliable keeper," observed Tom,
seriously, "for it would nearly break my heart if anything happened to
the _Speedaway_ now. I've only tried her out a few times, but she
gives promise of beating anything ever built in this section of the
country. I don't believe I could duplicate her lines again if I
tried."

"Don't borrow trouble," Jack told him. "We'll dismantle the boats all
we can before we leave them, and the chances are ten to one we'll find
them O.K. when we come out of the woods two weeks from now. But here
we are at the place, and the boys who mean to return home will have to
say good-bye."

CHAPTER XIV

THE RING OF STEEL RUNNERS

As the little flotilla of ice yachts drew up close to the shore, the
sound of boyish laughter must have been heard, for a man was seen
approaching. He came from the direction of the cabin which they had
sighted among the trees, and from the mud and stone chimney of which
smoke was ascending straight into the air--a promise of continued good
weather.

The boys were climbing up the bank when he reached them. So far as
they could see he appeared to be a rough but genial man, and Paul
believed they could easily trust him to take care of the boats while
away.

"I suppose you are Abe Turner, spoken of by Mr. Garrity?" was the way
Paul addressed the man, holding out his hand in friendly greeting.

The other's face relaxed into a smile. Evidently he liked this manly
looking young chap immediately, as most people did, for Paul had a
peculiarly winning way about him.

"That's my name, and I reckon now you must be Paul," said the other.

"Why, how did you know that?" demanded Bobolink, in surprise.

"Oh! I had a letter from Mr. Thomas Garrity telling me all about you
boys, and ordering me to do anything you might want. You see he owns
all the country around here, an' I'm holding the fort until spring,
when there's going to be some big timber cutting done. We expect to
get it to market down the Radway."

The scouts exchanged pleased looks.

"Bully for Mr. Thomas Garrity!" sh