“You are right, Billy. I was only teasing you to hear what arguments you would put up. But none of them are the real reason why we would leave the army now and go home. The only thing that would induce us to leave it before the war is over is the same thing that made us join it.”
“And pray may I ask what that is?”
“Yes. It is yourself. We left home to find you. Having found you, we are ready to leave everything and follow you whether you go home or away from home.”
“Bravo! Bravo!” cheered the dogs. “You and Stubby surely are bully friends for a goat to have. We congratulate you, Billy, on having such true and loyal ones.”
“Thanks,” bowed Billy. “Do you know the way to make and keep true, sincere and loyal friends? I’ll tell you. Be one yourself.”
“Hurrah for you, Billy! You will always have the last word.”
“Do you mind telling me a part of your immediate plan and how you propose getting from here to where we are to embark? Or are you thinking of stealing a ride home in an airship?” asked Button.
At this the dogs laughed. The idea of a goat, dog and cat riding in an airship!
“Well, my friends, you need not laugh and think that is impossible, for I already have crossed the American continent from New York City to San Francisco in an airship,” said Billy.