But Mother Martin thinned out their collection of treasures, allowing
them to take only what she thought would give them the most pleasure.
Boxes of food were packed, and a little stove made ready to take
along, for although a campfire looks nice it is hard to cook over.
Trouble got into all sorts of mischief, from almost falling out of the
haymow once, to losing the bucket down the well by letting the chain
unwind too fast. But a hired man caught him as he toppled off the hay
in the barn, and Grandpa Martin got the bucket up from the well by
tying the rake to a long pole and fishing deep down in the water.
At last the day came when the Curlytops were to go camping on Star
Island. The boat was loaded with the tents and other things, and two
or three trips were to be made half-way across the lake, for the
island was about in the middle. Nicknack and his wagon were to be
taken over and a small stable made for him under a tree not far from
the big tent.
"All aboard!" cried Ted, as he and Jan took their places in the first
boat. "All aboard!"
"Isn't this fun!" laughed Janet, who was taking care of Trouble.
"Dis fun," echoed the little chap.
"I'm sure we'll have a nice time," said Mother Martin. "And your
father will like it when he, too, can camp out with us."
"I hope the tramps don't bother you," said Mr.
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