ny the boys East, to at least
visit his family. He could not promise to remain at home, for the magic
of the magnificent country of the Northwest called loudly to him; but he
was taking home his savings, and meant to make his parents happy.

"I'll never forget all the good times you've given us, Mr. Mabie," said
Frank, as he squeezed the hand of their good friend when the whistle of
the approaching train was heard as it came booming out of the cut, a
mile away.

"My dear boy, on my part I can never thank you and your jolly chums half
enough for the delightful time you've given me. It will seem dreary here
after you're gone. I haven't been so happy for years," was the reply of
the stockman, as he beamed upon the cluster of bright faces around him.

"But you know you promised to make us a visit when we're home from
college next Christmas. Don't forget that, sir!" declared Will.

"I certainly will not, if I'm alive. And Will, one of the inducements
for such a long journey is the expectation of seeing that remarkable
book of interesting views, containing reminders of so many of the
exploits of the Outdoor Club. I'm sure that alone would repay me for the
trip," laughed the other.

"You won't forget about shipping those skins and things, sir? We want
them for reminders of the happiest trip this club ever took. Every time
we look at those rugs we'll think of you and your Big M ranch," remarked
Bluff.

"They'll go in a few days, boys, just as soon as the skins are in proper
shape for transportation, depend on it. And I'll let you know when
Pierre is placed under arrest, and the exiled chief, Running Elk, goes
back to his people with all honor."

The last they saw of Mr. Mabie and Billy, they were waving their big
hats vigorously on the little station platform. Then a curve of the road
shut them out, and the four chums settled back in their seats to talk
over the thousand and one matters that claimed their attention.

It is not in youth to grieve for long. They felt bad at leaving the
scene of these recent happy events; but presently, in anticipation of
the reunion with loved ones at home, this was temporarily forgotten.

Will bemoaned the fact that he had not one single film left.

"And there are so many things I'd like to take on the way home," he
sighed, "and which I let slip on the way up."

"Yes," remarked Jerry laughingly, "it's wonderful what game you see
when you haven't a gun. But what's the matter with you