"Let's go down and interview our friend Sambo," said Harry. "He has been growing communicative lately. Yesterday he deigned to say 'Yas, sah.' Maybe we can coax something more out of him."
When they reached the galley, to the boys' great surprise, the negro poked his head out over the half door and grinning broadly, said:
"Mornin', sahs."
"Why, Sambo," said Bert, in astonishment, "where did you find your tongue?"
"Always pick it up again in danger zone, sah."
"There goes that danger zone again," said Mason, in disgust. "I don't believe there is any danger between here and the equator, Sambo."
"Name not Sambo, sah. George Washington Jenks, New York, U. S. A., at yo' service, gents."
Finding the negro in such an unusual mood the boys grouped themselves about the door intending to draw the man out if possible, and learn what they could that might serve to confirm their suspicions as to the purpose of their cruise. As Harry stepped up to the door and brought the man's entire body into view, he noticed with amazement that he wore a cartridge belt and pistol holster from which the butt of a revolver peeped.
"Why, George, what are you carrying a pistol for this morning. Afraid the crew will mutiny?"
"Always carry gun in danger zone, sah," replied the negro, grinning still more.