King Jimmy the First was loyal to the core.
“Do you wish to see him so much?” asked Hodge, still with the wound of jealousy rankling in his heart.
“Of course I do, Bart. You know what a true friend he has been to me. You know I never could have obtained my fortune if it had not been for him. You know he has saved my life more than once.”
“Yes, I know,” muttered Hodge. “I know he saved your life that time when he was rowing with you and Inza. When the boat was capsized, he saved you, instead of Inza. Why did he do that unless he loved you most?”
“How foolish you are, Bart! It is always Frank’s way to help first those less able to help themselves. He did so in that case.”
“It was his choice between you!”
“Nonsense! It was nothing of the sort! Inza is an athletic girl, and he knew she was a splendid swimmer, therefore she was better able to take care of herself. At least, he thought so, and that was why he came to my rescue first. Now, don’t be foolish, Bart—please don’t!”
Their loyal companion, still standing with his back toward them, was forgotten for the time being. But his ears were wide open, and his wisdom that had made him king was brought to bear on this case.
“That’s what she thinks about it,” he mentally commented. “She’s honest in thinkin’ so, but I guess she’s wrong. If Frank saved her first, I’ll bet my new pair of suspenders that she’s the one he’s most stuck on.”
However, even the wisdom of a king may sometimes be unwise.