Two Boys in Wyoming | Page 5

were to those
that were agitating their offspring up stairs.
"I have been thinking," observed the physician, "of suggesting to them
that they are in need of an extension of their vacation; but what a farce
it would be! School opens next Monday, and they are the types of
rugged health, strength and activity. If I undertook to make such a
proposition I couldn't keep my face straight, and I am sure both would
burst out laughing."
"I know I should, if I were present."
"Parents must not make dunces of themselves before their children,"
was the philosophical remark of the physician; "some other plan must
be adopted."
Mr. Dudley leaned forward in his chair and slapped the shoulder of the
physician, his face aglow.
"I have it, Doc!"

"Let me hear it, for I admit that I am cornered."
"I will take the ground that, since I have become part owner of this
large tract of land, my first duty is to learn the truth about it. I can write
to parties out there, but they are all strangers to me, and there is no
saying how much reliance can be placed on their reports. What is
necessary is an agent who will make an intelligent and honest report;
and surely we can trust our own sons to do that."
"But, John," remarked the doctor, with his pleasant smile, "there are
scores of people right here at home who will do that for you. Suppose
Jack reminds you of the fact?"
"If he hasn't any more sense than to make such a suggestion, then, by
gracious! I'll punish him by sending some one else."
"Little fear of Jack saying anything of that nature. Even if he undertook
to do so, Fred would place his hand over his mouth. But, John, let's
understand the matter before we say anything to them. Your plan of
sending out Jack to inspect the property is a good one. It sounds
business-like, and must strike them that way; so that difficulty is
removed. You and I don't know anything about the region, nor the best
time for hunting game, but it is fair to believe that the month of
October will be suitable. Suppose we keep them in school throughout
September, and then give them a month's leave of absence, to examine
and report upon your property. If all goes well, they are to appear here,
ready to resume their studies on the first Monday in November."
"I can suggest no improvement upon that. No doubt the young rascals
are up-stairs, plotting how to bring us round to their way of thinking.
Suppose you call them down, Doc. Shall you or I unfold our brilliant
scheme?"
"You, by all means, since the property is yours."
The physician opened the door of his office and called "Fred!" There
was instant response, "Yes, sir." "I would like to see you and Jack for a
few minutes in the office."

"Yes, sir; we are coming."
And a minute later they arrived, handsome, glowing and expectant.
"Mr. Dudley has something to say to you, Jack."
Both boys turned their faces expectantly toward the gentleman named,
who crossed his legs, cleared his throat and looked very grave.
"My son, Doctor Greenwood and I have been discussing that property
of mine in the new State of Wyoming. We have agreed that I ought to
learn something about it before selling my interest in the same. To
secure such reliable information it is necessary to send some one thither
whom we know to be truthful and honest. The doctor thinks, and I
agree with him, that the right one to go is you, Jack--that is, if you have
no objections."
The parent paused for a reply, and Jack, as if the matter was too
important to be disposed of hastily, answered:
"I don't think of any objections just now, father."
"Very well; I am glad to hear it. If any occur to you, you will let me
know, so that I can engage some one else."
"I'll let you know at once, if I think of any."
"Very well. Our plan is that you and Fred shall resume your studies
next Monday, and keep right at them to the close of the month. On the
first of October you will start for Wyoming----"
"Alone?"
"I am surprised, my son, that you should interrupt me with that question.
Do you suppose I would allow you to spend a month in that wild region
without a companion to look after you? No, sir! Fred goes with you. I
entrust you to his care, and expect him to bring you back in time to
resume your studies on the first Monday in November. It is very kind in
the doctor to consent to the arrangement. I