sleighing became quite
popular.

"If we only had a big sleigh up here, we could go and get the girls from
Clearwater Hall and give them a ride," said Fred one day to Jack.

"I was thinking we might hire a big sleigh in town some Saturday
afternoon and do just that," answered his cousin. "I'll look into it the
first chance I get."

Fred and Jack had not forgotten the sport they had had earlier in the
season, when they had gone out with Frank Newberry and some others on a
hunt for rabbits and other small game.

"The hunting season is still open, Fred," said Jack one day. "What do
you say if we ask Colonel Colby for permission to go out."

"Suits me," answered his cousin quickly.

"Do you think Andy and Randy would like to go, too?"

"More than likely. They have been wanting to go ever since we brought
down that game."

When the subject was mentioned to the twins, they quickly agreed that it
would be a fine thing if they could all obtain permission to go on a
hunting trip the coming Saturday. Colonel Colby was appealed to without
delay.

"Well, boys, I have no objection to your going out," he said. "I know
you all understand the use of firearms, and I know, also, that your
fathers loved to go out in their day and hunt. And I did a little bit in
that line myself," and he smiled faintly. "But I want you to be very
careful in what you shoot at; and do your level best to keep out of
trouble of all kinds," and he looked at Jack and Fred as he uttered the
latter words.

"Getting into trouble before, Colonel Colby, wasn't our fault," answered
Jack quickly.

"I know that."

"By the way, Colonel Colby, if it isn't asking too much, would you mind
letting us know if Slugger Brown and Nappy Martell are really going to
return here?" questioned Fred.

"They have asked for permission to come back--at least, their parents
have asked for them--and I have the matter under consideration,"
answered the master of the Hall. He gazed questioningly at the Rovers.
"I meant to mention this subject to you, and I am glad you have brought
it up. In one way, I don't feel like having them here; but in another
way I should like to give them another chance in case they feel like
turning over a new leaf and making a fresh start. What do you boys think
of it?"

For a moment all of the Rover boys were silent, looking at each other
questioningly. Then the others showed that they expected Jack to speak.

"Well, if you want my candid opinio