The Scouts shouted to Mr. Livingston, urging him to hurry. Eagerly, they helped him aboard.
“I’m relieved to find you fellows here,” the Scout leader asserted. “What a day I’ve had with government officials! Our troubles aren’t over either, I’m afraid.”
“You don’t know the half of it,” Ken said, looking directly at Captain Carter.
He waited for the master of the Shark to take the initiative in mentioning the boxes of ammunition. The captain however, smiled arrogantly, and remained silent.
Unaware of the tense situation, Mr. Livingston remarked casually:
“I’m mighty glad the Shark finally made port. We should get our expedition on its way within a few days, providing government officials give us clearance. So far, they’ve refused.”
“Refused?” Willie demanded. “Why?”
“Well, it’s ridiculous. But a lot of nasty rumors seem to have circulated about our party. We’re under suspicion of aiding a group of would-be revolutionists, who have taken refuge in the back country. I think I finally managed to convince them of our good intentions. At any rate, port inspectors are coming aboard in a few minutes to make sure we’re not bringing in any contraband. Once our personal cargo passes inspection, the way should be cleared for us to leave Cuertos.”
“Jumping hop toads!” exclaimed War in dismay. “You mean if those government men should find guns or ammunition aboard, they’d hold up our trip?”
“If they came upon anything of that sort, they’d probably toss us in jail,” Mr. Livingston chuckled.