Much more along these same lines did the three Boy Scouts hear from the two venturesome air pilots during the balance of their stay in the experimental camp.  It was an experience they could never forget.  Ralph fairly hugged himself with satisfaction because he had obeyed the spirit that tempted him to pay a visit to his old camping grounds during the short Thanksgiving holiday season.

“Think what I would have missed if I’d told myself it was foolish to waste my time out here, when I never expected to set a single trap again!” he declared, as the signal was given to tell them that dinner was ready and they prepared to join the two officers at their mess.

“It’s been one of the greatest times of my whole life,” admitted Bud, a happy grin on his face as he looked over at his crude but effective model of a monoplane, all done up, waiting transportation again; and Hugh could easily guess what delightful dreams must be crowding through his chum’s mind, which later on it must be his painful duty to dissolve.

They certainly did enjoy that meal, eating heartily of the camp fare.  At least Uncle Sam provided bountifully for those whom he employed in his new Flying Squadron, the boys told each other; for one of the men in camp was a real chef, and could get some mighty appetizing dishes together on occasion.

As there were several pack animals available, Lieutenant Fosdick proposed that they load the model upon one of these.  A soldier would accompany them as far as the nearest farm house on the road to town, where they could hire a vehicle, and then bring the animal back.

When the time came to say good-by to the aviators, the boys all expressed their gratitude on account of the kindnesses they had received.

“Don’t mention it,” Lieutenant Fosdick replied, shaking each of the scouts by the hand; “the pleasure has all been on our side.  And besides, you did us a great favor by warning us about those foreign spies.  Some time I hope we’ll meet again.  Until then, the best of luck attend you, Hugh, Ralph and Bud!  Goodby, lads!”

CHAPTER XII

HOME AGAIN

The three scouts intended stopping long enough at the lonely shack in the woods to look about, and see that they had forgotten nothing.  All of them declared they had had the time of their lives, and would certainly never be apt to forget the remarkable experiences that had come their way.

“There she is!” exclaimed Bud, pointing ahead.

“The cabin, you mean,” Ralph added, as he, too, caught a glimpse of the familiar shack which had given them such friendly shelter.  “And it looks as quiet and peaceful as can be, too.”

“Why, what else would you expect?” Bud asked him.  “Hugh, didn’t we close that door when we came away; seems to me I can remember doing the same, after you told me it was best?”

“You certainly did pull it shut after you,” Hugh quickly replied.