n our field work and in these tests, but I am
satisfied that we can add to the introductory knowledge that we have
gained a more practical and helpful course.

"This is what I propose: First, I will give you two weeks of 'summer
school' training in geology and surveying under the tutelage of a
young man who is a thoroughly trained geological surveyor. He was
recommended to me by my friend Mr. Brett of the B.N. and C. Railroad.
The young man, Ransom Thayer, is willing to come to us on one
condition. He has been technically trained, and he insists upon
strict attention to the matter in hand and strict school discipline
in return for his services. He has arranged a schedule of hours
both for camp study and recitation and for practice in surveying,
and has left ample time, also, for recreation, such as swimming and
ball-playing.

"His proposition appealed to me as being both generous and just, and
I had confidence enough in the Scouts of Pioneer Camp to accept it
on the spot!"

A spontaneous cheer burst from the boys at this point.

"Well, tell me, do you like the idea?" urged the Scout Master
smilingly.

"Now, boys, tell him!" cried Walter Osborne, springing to his feet
and facing the troop.

"Let her out! Now!"

"Rah! Rah! Rah!" yelled the scouts, jumping to their feet.
"Rah! Rah! Rah! _Lieutenant Denmead_!"

"_Kree-kree-eee_!" shrilled the Hawks. "_How-ooo-ooo_! _Yap-yap-yap_!
_Skee-eee-eee_!" barked and squealed the others.

As the Scout Master raised his hand, silence fell upon the company
again.

"The plan for the two weeks of study is only preliminary," the
lieutenant continued. "Following that, we will organize the patrols
into four squads of geological surveyors. Each squad will be given
two days to make an accurate geological survey of a section
previously selected and surveyed by Mr. Thayer. The scouts will note
its dimensions, the quality of its soil, the height of its hills,
the extent of its valleys, the growth of its vegetation, its
stratified zones, its mineral deposits,---in a word, whatever
points Mr. Thayer shall designate to you in his course of study
under the head of the 'geological survey,' is to be included in an
accurate report, neatly recorded and finally submitted to Mr.
Thayer for his marking.

"And last of all a system of 'points' will be established for the
course, by which the patrols may be credited for certain accomplishments
in the line of this particular train