"I don't understand you."
"I reckon you know what I mean. Why do you wanter keep on the track of that boat?"
"I just had an idea, that's all. They are going without a guide, and I'd like to see how they'll come out."
"There's plenty of them kind of fellers who think they can save money by workin' it alone; but they don't travel very far. What's your other reason?"
Unquestionably Jim was suspicious, and Jet began to study the question of how much he could tell him, for it would soon be necessary to make some more definite explanation.
While he was thus trying to decide, the small guide continued to ply him with questions, until he came to the conclusion that the best plan would be to give a portion of the story, otherwise, in case he met the men, Jim might ask them to solve the riddle.
"If you'll cross your throat never to tell a living person till we get out of the woods again, I'll let you into the secret, and what's more, I'll agree to give you twenty dollars, if this job is finished up right."
"Twenty dollars!" the boy repeated, in surprise. "What do you want me to do?" and he turned to look at the boat.
"Nothing just at present but row slowly without turning around. Will you agree not to tell anybody?"
"Of course, an' I'd do a good deal more'n that to earn so much money."