“Exactly what we had decided upon,” declared Leonard. “Somebody, armed, must be near him all the time. I am willing to stand one watch.”
“Good,” said Mr. Willing. “Jimmy, too, is ready. Now I believe the best thing to do is to split the day and night into three parts—each watch eight hours.”
“But who will stand the third watch, Dad?” asked Shirley.
“Frank,” declared Mr. Willing.
“But Uncle Frank is so old,” protested Shirley.
“He’s not too old to use a shotgun,” replied Mr. Willing significantly. “Besides, I feel sure I can trust him.”
“I am sure of that,” replied Shirley.
“Call him for me, daughter,” said Mr. Willing.
Shirley went on this errand, and a few moments later “Uncle Frank,” an old negro, stood before them.
Mr. Willing explained the situation in a few words and Uncle Frank announced himself as not only willing but eager to stand one of the watches.