"Well, here is where we part and get back to the grind," said Fred, after he and Jack had placed their sisters' baggage in the proper car.
"Good luck to both of you girls!" cried Jack.
The girls were soon started off in one direction, and then the boys started off in the other. The latter were still some distance from Colby Hall when they saw Spouter Powell and Gif Garrison approaching on foot.
"Glad to see you back!" cried Spouter, as he climbed into the machine.
"We've got great news," announced Gif, his eyes beaming.
"Our fathers have volunteered for the war!" broke out Spouter.
All were much interested, although Andy and Randy looked a trifle disturbed. The fact that their own father would have to remain behind while all of the others were going to the front was continually in the minds of the twins. They felt much disappointed.
"When did you get the news?" questioned Jack.
"It came in by the first mail this morning," returned Spouter. "I got a letter, and so did Gif. My father and Mr. Garrison are both going to do their best to join the crowd from Putnam Hall and Brill College."
Of course the Rovers wanted to know more particulars, and they were given so far as Spouter and Gif knew them.
"And we've got more news, too," announced Gif. "They've finally settled on the place where we are to have our annual encampment."
"And where will that be?" asked Randy eagerly.
"We're to go to Barlight Bay on the Atlantic coast. It's quite a distance from here."
"Barlight Bay!" exclaimed Jack. And then he looked inquiringly at Fred. "Isn't that in the vicinity of Camp Huxwell?"
"Sure it is!" answered Fred. "They are almost side by side."
"I asked about that," said Spouter; "and Captain Dale told me that our camp and the government camp will be not very far apart. There is a thick belt of timber and some rocky land between."
"Why then, we'll be close to our fathers!" cried Fred joyfully. "This suits me right down to the ground!" and his face showed his delight.
"Gee, I wish we were going under canvas to-morrow!" sighed Jack.
The next day found the Rovers deep in their studies. The examinations previous to the annual encampment were now close at hand, and all were anxious to make a good showing.