Introduction - The Rover Boys under Canvas by Edward Stratemeyer
MY DEAR BOYS: This book is a complete story in itself, but forms the third volume in a line issued under the general t.i.tle, "The Second Rover Boys Series for Young Americans."
As mentioned in a number of volumes of the first series, this line was started some years ago with the publication of "The Rover Boys at School," "On the Ocean," and "In the Jungle," in which I introduced my young readers to d.i.c.k, Tom, and Sam Rover. The volumes of the first series related the doings of these three Rover boys while attending Putnam Hall Military Academy, Brill College, and while on numerous outings.
Having acquired a good education, the three young men established themselves in business and became married. Presently d.i.c.k Rover was blessed with a son and a daughter, as was also his brother Sam, while Tom Rover became the proud father of twin boys. At first the four lads were kept at home, but then it was thought best to send them to a boarding school, and in the first volume of the second series, ent.i.tled "The Rover Boys at Colby Hall," I related what happened to them while attending this inst.i.tution.
From Colby Hall the scene was shifted to Snowshoe Island, where the lads went for a mid-winter outing. Here they ran into a most unusual mystery, and helped an old lumberman to establish his claim to the island.
In the present volume the boys are back at Colby Hall, but it is time for the annual encampment of the military school, and soon they depart for a brief season "Under Canvas." This is at the time of the World War, and the lads get mixed up in the mystery surrounding a wrecked submarine. What this led to, I leave for the pages which follow to relate.
In conclusion I wish to thank my numerous readers for all the nice things they have said about my books. I trust the reading of the volumes will do all of them good.
Affectionately and sincerely yours, EDWARD STRATEMEYER.