“Well, what do you say to making a company affair of it?” continued Ned, cheerfully. “England, Australia, and Africa against the world.”
“I am agreeable,” replied Clarence.
“What do you say, Fred, to this partnership?”
“What partnership?” asked Fred, waking from his melancholy reverie.
“That we should go to Africa and become bona fide explorers. The company to be called the Clarfredned Company of explorers and gentlemen adventurers.”
“With the last first, of course, Ned,” added Clarence, modestly.
“Well, yes; I suppose I do know a trifle more than you pair of scientists, having a year’s advantage of you. And I haven’t the slightest objection to be your chief, on one condition.”
“And that?”
“My condition is, that I provide the first expenses.”
“Again agreeable,” replied Clarence Raybold, with alacrity. “My pater, since the Jameson Raid, hasn’t had too much cash to spare. What with confiscation, fines, and taxes, the life of an Uitlander is not an enviable one in the Transvaal. Therefore I willingly accept your terms, and declare you to be my captain.”