"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.