Doubtless Frank’s father and mother exchanged smiles when this hearty cheer came to their ears from Frank’s den; but Mr. Langdon, even though a staid banker now, never forgot that he had once been a boy himself; and they understood the enthusiasm that must inevitably sweep over the three chums of Frank when they heard the glorious news.

So the boys proceeded to go into executive session, and jot down lists of such things as they would be apt to need on the outing.

“I understand that Archie had some heavy fishing tackle in his supplies, which we can count on to carry us through.  Take your heavy rods only, and your guns, with proper ammunition,” suggested Frank.

“And I’ll lay in a stock of films and such things, for I expect to get lots of fine pictures among those wonderful Southern scenes.  I’ve always wanted to see that Spanish moss trailing from the swamp trees like it is in all Southern views.  I’m the happiest chap in Centerville tonight, Frank!” exclaimed Will.

“But see here,” interrupted Bluff, “how about that matter connected with your good dad, Frank—­why was he so pleased at the idea of you going to Cedar Keys?”

“Yes, tell us about that,” burst out Jerry.

“It’s a big mystery, fellows.  Father smiled and nodded his head when I read him Archie’s letter.  ’What a remarkable coincidence.  I was just thinking of going to that city myself, or sending a trusted messenger, and now you can do it all for me,’ he said.”

The boys exchanged looks.

“Don’t it just beat all?” remarked Jerry, weakly.

“Why, we’re having the luckiest streak of our lives, that’s what.  But see here, Frank, didn’t he tell you more?” remarked Bluff, who always wanted to know, being the son of a lawyer.

“He gave me this little packet, done up in a stout manila envelope, and told me not to open it until I came in sight of Cedar Keys.  Inside would be found full instructions as to what errand he wanted me to carry out.”

“Better and better!  We sail under sealed orders, fellows.  That should add a little zest to the voyage.  I know I’ll be consumed with curiosity every minute of the time wanting to know what under the sun it can be that your good dad has waiting for you to do,” said Will, seriously.

“Well,” remarked Frank, “you see me put the packet away, not to be opened until the proper time; and now we’d better go on with our lists.”

CHAPTER II

CAUGHT IN A FIRE TRAP

It was late that night ere the three visitors thought of going home.  There was so much to talk over that it seemed as though they could never break away.

“Listen!” exclaimed Will, finally, as they were about to depart.

“That’s the fire-bell, as sure as you live!” cried Bluff.

“Tell me about that, will you!” cried Jerry.  “A cold night to get burned out!”