ng as he hovered over his
outdoor range, and gave his orders to willing subordinates.

That meal was one never to be forgotten by any of the boys. To a number
it proved the very first they had ever eaten under similar conditions;
and with ravenous appetites, whetted by the long tramp, and the cool air
that came with evening, it seemed as though they could devour the entire
mess alone.

But their eyes proved larger than their capacities, for there was plenty
for all, and no one complained of not being satisfied when the meal
ended.

Each patrol had a regularly-organized system whereby the work might be
divided up, and every fellow get his share. Hence there could be no
favors shown, and no chance for disputes.

One of the leading rules was that duty came before play. Consequently
the tin platters, cups, knives, forks and spoons, as well as what
utensils had been used in preparing the dinner, were cleaned and laid
away before Paul allowed the big fire to be started.

Each patrol cook was allowed to have what he thought would best please
those for whom he labored. Paul exercised only a general supervision
over the whole matter, in order to make sure that there was no
unnecessary waste. Consequently there would always be more or less
rivalry between the three patrols, and much good natured "joshing" with
regard to what they had to eat.

Once that bonfire was started, the scene assumed a different aspect. The
glow lighted up the encampment, and filled the Banner Boy Scouts with a
feeling of pardonable pride, because each one felt that he had a
personal ownership in the camp under the wide spreading oak.

After a time they grew merry. William joked, another told a story that
sent them into fits of laughter, and then songs were sung.

"How different they sound out here in the woods!" declared Wallace, as
the last notes of a favorite air died away.

He was possibly the most satisfied member of the troop, for his love of
the open air life had always been profound.

"Say, fellows, how about settling down to the prosy life after this gay
old jaunt; tell me about that?" demanded William.

There was a storm of disapproval.

"Don't make us feel bad, old fellow!" pleaded one.

"Me for the gay life of a gypsy!" declared another.

"Why, I'll have to run away, and join that circus, I just guess!"
laughed a third.

But Paul only smiled. He knew a change would come over the spirit of
their dreams presently. They were now