CHAPTER XVII
DOCAK AND HIS HOME
"By the great horned spoon, I suspected it! Docak, I'm mighty glad to see you; I'm Jack Cosgrove, and put it there!"
The native was not so demonstrative as his English friend, but he certainly was as delighted and surprised to meet him in this extraordinary manner as was the sailor to meet him.
They shook hands heartily, and Docak indulged in his peculiar laugh, which was accompanied by little, if any noise, but was indicative of genuine pleasure.
The reader will recall that this was the second time Docak had rescued Jack Cosgrove, the other instance having occurred a number of years before, when Captain McAlpine's ship was destroyed by collision with an iceberg.
"You're my guardian angel!" was the exclamation of the happy sailor; "I might have known that if anybody was to save us you was the chap to do it. Come up here, boys, and shake hands with Docak ag'in, for he's one of the best fellows living."
Rob and Fred were only too glad to do as invited, and cordial relations were at once established.
"Is your home where it was when I was here last?" Jack asked.
"Yes, off dere," replied Docak, turning about and pointing inland; "not far—soon get dere."
Jack gave a low whistle expressive of astonishment.