“You assume he’s armed?” Mr. Livingston asked in surprise.
“Why not?” Warner hesitated and then added: “Along with the food, he took my gun. I thought I wouldn’t worry you by saying anything about it, but reckon I should.”
This additional bad news hit the Scouts hard. It was War who broke the gloomy silence.
“I’ve been a drag,” he admitted. “No, don’t try to feed me any soft soap. This is my point: suppose I turn back? Wouldn’t you have enough grub for the rest of the party?”
“It would be shaving it too close,” Warner replied.
“Maybe if two of us went back—?” suggested Willie slowly. “For instance, War and me.”
“Even at that, I doubt we could make it,” Warner said after a moment’s thought. “Thanks, boys, for offering.”
“Is there a forest ranger’s station near Elks Creek?” Jack asked suddenly.
“Yes,” Warner told him.
“Does the service have patrol planes?”