"Now we are in a box!" exclaimed Clarence. "How are we to go on without our sampan man?"
"Well, we have the sampan," remarked Mallard cheerfully. "The only other thing now is to look out for some one to take charge of it."
"Easier said than accomplished," commented Mr. Reid. "Besides, though Mr. Kit-ze has deserted us, yet the sampan is his. We can't take possession without his consent."
"He has forfeited his right to protest against such a step," declared Mr. Wilburn, "by his desertion and breach of contract. I am for taking possession of the sampan, engaging some one to have charge of it, assisted by Mr. Chefoo here, then allowing Mr. Kit-ze so much for its use."
"But a competent sampan man is hard to find," said Mr. Reid. "That was why I stuck to Mr. Kit-ze."
"Oh, but it is too bad to lose our trip!" exclaimed Mr. Wilburn, "especially when so much relating to our work depends on it," and he looked wistfully at Mr. Reid.
"Yes, too bad," assented Mallard.
"Oh, we must go," declared Clarence.
Even Helen and Dorothy were for going on, that is, if satisfactory arrangements could be made.
"But maybe Mr. Kit-ze will return," suggested Helen.