I'll give you two
lumps," said Ned.
"Three," replied Chunky, firmly, making no move to hand over the milk.
Ned let the lumps drop into his companion's cup, but from such a
height that Chunky had to dodge as the coffee flew up.
He wiped a few drops of the coffee from his face, deliberately filled
his cup to overflowing with milk, then handed the can to Walter.
"I guess Chunky doesn't need any of our help. He is pretty well able
to take care of himself," laughed Tad.
"Delicious," breathed the Professor, sampling his cup of steaming
liquid.
"Who, Chunky?" asked Ned quizzically.
"Certainly not the coffee," replied the Professor in a tone of
reproof.
The meal was finished with many a jest and the pack divided up into
bundles so that each should have his share to carry, after which the
lads took up their return tramp.
They arrived at the mountain trail shortly before noon.
"Where's the guide?" asked Tad, glancing about.
"Probably asleep somewhere," replied Ned. "He's almost as big a
sleepy head as Chunky."
"He is not here, Ned."
"Most unreliable guide we've had. I shall dismiss him immediately
upon our arrival at the Red Star Mine," decided the Professor. "You
are sure he is nowhere about, Tad?"
"You can see. He's not here. I hope he has left the rope. I'll
climb up there and find out.
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