your father and mine are too big to spoil a friendship like ours because of some fuss they had years and years ago. No, sir! I'm going to hold on to you, Bobbie, and," he added shyly, "I'm going to hold on to your father, too, if he'll let me, for I like him." "I'm glad you like Dad," Bob said, flushing with pleasure. "I do myself." "My dad isn't so bad, either," Van ventured with a dry little smile. "Some time you shall see for yourself." "I hope so." "Then it is agreed that we'll stick together, no matter what happens," said Van solemnly. "Sure thing!" "Promise." "You may bank on me," was Bob's earnest answer. CHAPTER VII MR. CARLTON MAKES A WAGER AND WINS As the boys sat at dinner that evening Mr. Carlton inquired about their trip to the refinery, and with a humorous twinkle in his eye added: "I do not suppose you would care to put in another day on factory visiting, would you?" "What do you mean, Dad?" asked Bob. "I was wondering whether you would like to see where some of our sugar goes," was his father's answer. "Would you be interested to take a tour through the Eureka Candy Factory to-morrow and learn how candy is made?" "I should," responded Bob promptly. "And you, Van?" demanded Mr. Carlton with a kindly smile. "I'd like it of all things," said Van, returning the smile frankly. "Very well. You shall spend to-morrow at the Eureka Company's