Page:Boy scouts in the White Mountains; the story of a long hike (IA boyscoutsinwhite00eato).pdf/168

 about to Mr. Goodwin's house, Echo Lake, the Profile, and so on—a total of sixteen.

The boys washed down their frugal meal of raisins and chocolate with all the water from the canteens ("Gee," said Frank, "it beats all how much you drink on mountains. I suppose it's due to the rapid evaporation.") and shortly before one began the descent. It was made in quick time. With no packs to bother them, the Scouts could vault on their poles, and they came down the two miles in seventeen minutes. They were hot and panting at the base, and surprised at their own record.

"Takes you in the front of your legs, and in behind your knees," said Frank. "I suppose that's because we don't develop those holding-in muscles on the level."

"Well, we'll develop 'em before we get home, I guess," said Peanut, rubbing his shins.

They now went to the Goodwins' house to pay their party call, and say good-bye, and then returned to camp to wait for the motor. They had all their stuff out beside the road when the car, a big, seven passenger touring car, came along, and in they piled. They drew lots for the front seat, and Peanut won. The other five got into the tonneau, and with a shout, the car started up—or rather down the road, for they were on the top of a hill.