“There, I’m thankful that’s over,” and he gave a deep sigh of relief.  “Yez kin hold up yer heads now among the rest.  I wish it was the first-class badge, though.  Yez should have it by this time, and I guess ye would if we hadn’t spent so much time in earnin’ money.”

The morning of the Review was clear and warm, and the scouts in full uniform were early on the grounds.  The flags were all arranged, and everything was in readiness for the meeting.  Word had passed throughout the parish that the Lieutenant-Governor was to be present, and all during the morning people kept coming, some by motor-boats, and others by teams.  They brought their dinners with them, intending to make a holiday of it.  Even Tom Dunker was there with his family.  He had no use for Captain Josh or the scouts, but he did want to see the Lieutenant-Governor, and hear what he had to say.

When the River Queen at last appeared in sight, the wharf was black with people.  As the steamer drew near and gave forth two raucous blasts, a band on board began to play the National Anthem.  When this was ended, the scouts, crowding the bow, gave three cheers and a “tiger.”  Flags were flying fore and aft, and as the river was like a mirror, the River Queen presented a perfect picture of majestic gracefulness as if proud of the load she was carrying.

Captain Josh with his scouts kept guard at the outer edge of the wharf, and stood at attention as the various troops filed ashore.  When at last the Lieutenant-Governor and several noted men came out, the boys gave the full salute, and then preceded them to the main highway where the other scouts were already lined up.  Then down the road they all marched, the band going before, playing a lively air, the Governor, and others in carriages, followed by a long line of scouts, with the Hillcrest troop leading.  It was a proud moment for Captain Josh, as he marched ahead of the procession.  Drawn to his full height, and with his long beard sweeping his breast, he might have been taken for a great warrior of olden days leading his men into action.

After the troops had reached the grounds they disbanded, and then various games were begun.  Baseball came first between two crack teams.  Those not interested in this made for the shore, where, protected by thick trees, they were able to enjoy a good swim.

When the baseball match was over it was time for dinner.  Soon the smoke of numerous fires rose above the trees near the shore where the scouts boiled water, cooked eggs and meat like old veterans.  It was a scene of gay festivity, mingled with much laughter and fun.  All kinds of mistakes were made, due to ignorance of cooking or the excitement of the moment.  One patrol put their tea into their can with the cold water, and boiled all together.  Some boys mixed their coffee with salt instead of sugar.  But all mistakes and the bantering which followed, were taken in good part, for no one felt like getting angry, no matter what happened.