"Bonehead!" exclaimed Jimmie.
The marine glanced up at the little fellow with a frown.
"Don't you go to abusing me," he said. "I won't stand for it. I was raised a pet!" he added, with a smile, as the boy grinned.
"Stop that!" commanded the Captain, sharply. "If you have told all you know about the matter you may go."
"'Wait," Ned said, as the marine moved toward the door, "I would like to ask a question. Would you know this lad you speak of if you should see him again?"
"I don't think so. It was dark, and he didn't look me squarely in the face."
"That's all," Ned said, turning to the consul. "You'll do what you can to find them?" he asked.
"Sure I will!"
"I can't remain and help you," Ned went on, and there was a tremble in his voice. "I've got my work to do."
"I understand."