The first part of the program completed, he then told the Cubs of an exciting trip he recently had taken to Mesa Verde National Park, site of the cliff dwellers.
The Cubs asked a great many questions and examined pottery and blankets which Mr. Suell had brought back from the Indian country. After that, Fred, Mack and Dan put on an Indian ceremonial dance, characterized by more energy than grace.
Presently the Pow Wow concluded with all the Den members forming a “living circle.” In close formation, facing inward, each Cub grasped the thumb of the boy on his left, raising right hand high in the two-finger Cub sign.
Up and down like a pump handle went their hands as the boys shouted: “Akela, we’ll do our Best!”
At the word “Best,” all the Cubs snapped smartly into salutes.
“Now for grub!” shouted Red, breaking away. “That stuff in the kettle sure smells good!”
Dan and Brad circulated among the parents, waiting until everyone had been served before they took their helpings of stew.
In the chill night air, the hot food exactly hit the spot. Time after time, the Cubs went back for more until the big kettle was nearly empty.
Brad and Dan sat slightly apart from the others, their faces splashed with firelight. They were silently staring out across the dark river, when Mr. Hatfield, coming up behind them, touched their shoulders.
“Don’t say anything to the other Cubs,” he warned in a low tone. “Just follow me to the beach.”
Wondering why the Cub leader was acting so mysteriously, the pair quickly put aside their plates, and joined him at the dock. To their further surprise, Mr. Hatfield began to untie the dinghy.
“That’s exactly what I propose to find out,” Mr. Hatfield replied. “A few minutes ago, I heard a car turn down into the old logging road.”
“Near Silverton’s place?” Dan interposed.
“Yes, at least I think the car was on the logging road. And I’m quite certain I saw a flashing light on Mr. Silverton’s property.”
“Then I was right the other night about that flashing light!” Dan cried. “Are you going to investigate?”
“Figured I might row up the river and look around. Want to ride along?”
“We sure do,” Brad declared, stepping into the boat.
“I’ve already told your parents not to expect you home for an hour,” the Cub leader said as he shoved off. “I have my car here and will drop you off at your homes after we get back.”
