"Yes," remarked the hunter, with a smile. "Then I'd give him a wide berth. I don't just know what his rights are on this island. I know he doesn't bother me, and he keeps off my land, except when he wants to borrow something, or have me buy food for him. So I don't bother him, and I'd advise you boys to do the same."
"All right," answered Sammy. He did not exactly promise, and the truth of the matter was that he made up his mind to find out more about the queer hermit, as well as about the mystery and the deserted mansion, as soon as he could.
And his chums felt the same way.
"Well, anyhow, we're here!" exclaimed Sammy, a little later, while they sat about a campfire in front of the cabin, and ate the meal which Mr. Jessup got ready. "We're here, and we're going to have some fun!"
"That's what we are!" cried Frank. "What can we do first?"
"Well, I'm going to do a little hunting for rabbits this afternoon," said Mr. Jessup. "You boys can come along, if you like."
"Fine!" cried Sammy.
"I wish we had guns and could hunt," said Sammy.
"You're a bit too young for firearms," said the hunter. "Later on, when you grow up, you can have 'em, and I'll show you how to shoot."
With this the boys had to be content, though it must be confessed they looked on with eager and envious eyes while Mr. Jessup got his gun ready for the little expedition.
Maybe, the dog, as soon as he saw the preparations, frisked about in delight. He barked, and ran to and fro from the cabin, as if asking everyone to hurry.
"All right, old fellow," said Mr. Jessup, soothingly. "We'll soon be with you."
