were tramping down a well-shaded road bounded by prosperous-looking farms.

Two miles further on the boys would branch off through a long stretch of woods where the road was rougher.

Here two youngsters would be needed for the work, one pushing, while the other hauled on a rope made fast to the front of the cart.
Five of the boys were well laden with miscellaneous packages of food.

Tom, on account of pushing the cart, had been permitted to place his load on the already well-packed cart.
"Time's up," called Dick.

"Dave to the bat." Smiling, Darry packed his own parcels in the cart.
"Whew! But it's good to get away from that thing," grunted Reade, mopping his forehead, as he stalked on ahead.
"Here, you, Tom!" called Danny Grin.