“And if it wouldn’t be too much trouble, could you let my mother know I’m safe?” asked Jerry. “Then I won’t have to go home.”
“Yes, I’ll do that, and for you and Andy, too, Bob. Now boys, show what sort of stuff you’re made of. This is quite a calamity for Cresville, but other places have suffered worse, and it’s up to us to meet it bravely. Now, Mr. Mayor, don’t fail to call on me for any aid in my power to give.”
“Thank you, Mr. Slade, I’ll remember. You’re a citizen to be proud of. Mr. Baker has offered me all the funds I need.”
“That’s good,” murmured Bob, glad that his father, too, had taken a hand in helping the unfortunates.
“Oh, I almost forgot,” said Mr. Slade. “Mrs. Hopkins telephoned me a little while ago, Mr. Mayor, to the effect that she and some ladies were organizing a nursing corps, so that any injured persons will receive all the medical attention they need.”
“Good!” cried the town executive. “It’s a comfort to have such citizens in Cresville. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll go see how our relief work is coming on.”
“Yes, and I guess it’s up to us to get on the job, too!” added Jerry. “Come on, fellows.”
While Mr. Slade hurried off to send word of the safety of the lads, Jerry and his chums placed themselves at the service of one of the several chairmen of the relief corps that had hastily been organized. The boys found much to do, and it was not easy work, as the storm continued to rage.
“I think it’s slacking up a bit, though,” remarked Bob when there came a chance for him and his chums to take a breathing spell. They had worked hard and faithfully, even the excitable Andy Rush proving a real hero.
“Yes, the wind isn’t quite so strong,” agreed Jerry. “I’ll be glad, though, when we can get on something dry.”