But Frank had no desire to let her know what had occurred, and he was glad when, at this moment, he heard the stumping sound of a crutch on the stairs.
“Here comes Jack,” he said.
The lame boy came in, bringing a bundle.
“There,” he said, with a laugh, “I made some money to-day, and I’m going to help provide for this ranch. This thing is altogether too one-sided, Frank Merriwell.”
“You young rascal,” cried Frank, “do you dare play tyrant?”
“On this occasion I do. If you try to boss me now, you’ll find I’m a bad, bad man. Just get ready for supper, and I’ll have it on the table pretty quick.”
“Mutiny! mutiny!” exclaimed Merry, tragically. “I didn’t expect this. I am quite unprepared, and I suppose I’ll have to surrender the ship.”
“If you don’t, I’ll scuttle her.”
“The jig is up. You’re in command to-night.”
This pleased the lame boy, and he hopped off, giving orders like an old sea captain, and speaking in such a deep voice that he soon began to grow hoarse.