The sarcasm was lost on old Zack, however. He even forgot to emit his customary minute interval cry of "Geddap!" to his old team which, in consequence, came to a dead standstill in the middle of the road.
"Of course we shall stay and help you till you get a hired man to suit you," went on Ned, with quiet sarcasm.
"Yes—yes," quavered the old man, chirruping to his stationary team, and seemingly dazed by the sudden announcement of the boys' intentions.
"In the navy—out on the water," he muttered as they drove on, "Land o' Goshen!—two dollars!—fights!—busted stoves!—the navy!"
[CHAPTER III.]
UNCLE SAM GETS TWO RAW RECRUITS.
Old Zack's daze was not dispelled the next morning when, having done their work as usual, the boys set off to trudge the six miles into Lambs' Corners.
"Will you be back to dinner?" the old man croaked, in such a quavering voice that even Herc felt sorry for him.