Startled by the violence of the outburst, Jack gazed up into the enraged face of the Captain. In that instant, he fancied that the surly, pouch-like face mirrored not only anger but fear. What reason might the Captain have for not wanting the Explorers to help retrieve the lost cargo?
“Ken and I were only trying to help,” he said quietly.
“When I want your assistance, I’ll tell you so!” the Captain growled. “Aboard the Shark, I’m in command. Now get away from the gangplank!”
“Okay,” Jack muttered, eyes blazing. He’d learned in early Scouting days that it nearly always paid to hold one’s tongue.
War, however, could not resist making a muttered comment.
“What was that?” Captain Carter bellowed at him.
“Oh, peddle your fish!” War exclaimed. “I’m glad we’re not passengers on your old tub!”
“A sentiment shared, young man. When I see you in Peru, it will be soon enough!”
“Just be sure you deliver our stuff safely!” War shouted back. “Don’t be dumping any more of it!”
To break up the useless repartee, the other Explorers pulled War away from the dock.