The king’s boat was none too safe a structure, and the boys laughed the one at the other as they took their seats before their host.
“If we are overturned, Jack, make for the shore at once, and try and save your rifle.”
“To be sure, Dick. But how about the crocodiles?”
“And the hippos, Jack?”
“Feel afraid?”
“No. Do you?”
“Not a bit!”
The king seemed a little nervous about the boys’ rifles when he saw the deadly weapons in their hands, and he asked if they were safe.
“A deal safer than your boat, Mr King,” said Dick, laughing.
“Yes, that they are,” said Jack, giving the boat a sway to and fro.