"Hurrah, that lets you out, Dave!" cried Roger. "The case against you is squashed." "The Pooles will have to let it drop," added the shipowner's son. "And I am mighty glad of it." "I hope you are right," said Dave, and his face showed his relief. They had to tell Ben all about what had happened. Then the latter wanted to see the bear target, and the crowd ended by doing some more target practicing. But this time Dave was very careful how he shot, and so were the others. It had been decided that the start for the West was to be made early the following week, and for several days the boys and the girls were busy getting ready. Laura had traveled a great deal, so the journey would not be a novelty to her, but with Jessie it was different. "I know I shall like it, once I am there," said Jessie. "But, oh, it seems such a distance to go!" "We'll take good care of you," answered Dunston Porter. "And I am sure you'll like Mrs. Endicott and Belle," added Laura. "Belle is as full of fun as a--a--oh, I don't know what." "Shad is of bones," suggested Dave, who stood by. "Oh, what a comparison!" cried Jessie, and then giggled in the regulation girl fashion. They were to take a local train to Buffalo and change at that city for Chicago. Ben Basswood decided to go with them as far as Buffalo, so there would be quite a party. The boys gathered their things together and were ready to start a full day beforehand. The buying of railroad tickets and berths in the Pullmans was left entirely to Dunston Porter. A farewell gathering had been arranged for the young people by Mrs. Wadsworth, to take place on the afternoon previous to their departure for the West. About a dozen boys and girls from Crumville and vicinity were invited. The party was held on the lawn of the Wadsworth estate, which was trimmed for the occasion with banners, flags, and lanterns. A small orchestra, located in the summerhouse, furnished the music. Of course Dave and his chums donned their best for this occasion, and Laura and Jessie appeared in white dresses that were as pretty as they could be. Jessie's wavy hair was tied up in new ribbons, and as Dave looked at her he thought she looked as sweet as might a fairy from fairyland. He could not help smiling at her, and when she came and pinned on his coat a buttonhole bouquet he thought he was the happiest boy in the whole world. "Oh, but won't we have the grand times when we get out West!" he said to her. "I hope so, Dave," she answered. "But----" "But what, Jessie?" he questioned, as he saw her hesitate. "I--I can't get that Link Merwell out of my head. I am so sorry his father's ranch is next to that we are going to visit." "Oh, don't worry. We'll make Link keep his distance," he returned, lightly. Yet it must be confessed that he was just a bit worried himself. Among the first boys to arrive was Ben Basswood, and he lost no time in calling Phil and Roger aside.