“I think it’s a shame my brother could not be here,” she said.
“It sure is, Lillian, but the Marines down below us haven’t been given any leave for several weeks. They have to keep right on the job while things look nasty,” one of the men explained.
“Yes, of course, but I did hope Phil could make it. It’s been months since he could get away.”
“He’ll get extra time later. Be a good sport and try to get along with just us. We’re really not half bad companions if you’ll give us a chance,” the man said gravely.
“You are both perfect dears. I’ve been so disgruntled that it’s a wonder you haven’t wanted to drop me into the Gulf. I’ll try and make amends.” She laughed gayly and her companions joined in heartily. After that the three seemed to have a very jolly time, and Jim forgot all about them. He was thinking of Don Haurea and his warning for them to be on the alert, and that was one reason he was anxious to get back to the drome and into the air as quickly as he could.
“I’d better reserve a room,” Mr. Austin suggested.
“Let’s go on, Dad. We can make Havana before dark,” Jim said quickly.
“That’s rather a long stretch of flying, my boy. I thought we would rest here, and go on in the morning.”
“Bob got a nap on the way, so he can relieve me, and the quicker we get off, the better. I don’t want to hang around here if we do not have to.”
“I’m sure that I don’t,” his father admitted.