“More lonely and terrified than starved, I imagine,” said Joe. “He’s probably been foraging around about among the tables.
“I’ve got a little something here,” said Jimmy, a little sheepishly, as he drew a bacon sandwich from his pocket.
“Caught with the goods!” exclaimed Joe. “Where did you get this, you human cormorant?”
“Brought it from the table this morning,” confessed Jimmy. “You see, I didn’t know just what effect this sea air would have on my appetite, and I thought I’d better be prepared in advance. But I guess the dog needs it more than I do, and he’s welcome to it.”
Jimmy tossed the sandwich to the dog, who swallowed it in two gulps and wagged his tail for more.
“Got any other concealed about you?” asked Herb.
“That’s all,” declared Jimmy, mournfully. “Gee, I wish I could eat as fast as that fellow can. He’s got me beaten to a frazzle.”
The dog followed the boys like their shadows, as they moved about the vessel in the wake of the lieutenant and the crew.
“Guess he’s adopted us,” said Herb.
“Adopted Jimmy, you mean,” corrected Joe. “See how close he keeps to his heels. He thinks Jimmy is the best thing that ever happened.”