I found it was a note from the doctor, and to my astonishment it read as follows:
“I have thrown up the job and gone back to Shanghai. Too dangerous to tackle. I advise you to follow my example. Life is worth more than you can possibly gain.
“Gaylord.”
“So,” said a harsh voice beside me; “the noble physician has run away.”
I turned with a start to face Mai Lo, who had insolently read the note over my shoulder.
“So it seems,” I answered, blankly.
“Run away!” exclaimed Joe and Archie, who were unable to comprehend this desertion.
“Gone back to Shanghai,” I answered, handing them the paper.
“Will you follow his example?” asked Mai Lo, calmly. “I must know at once, as we are ready to start.”
We three boys, confronted by this trying emergency, glanced into one another’s eyes; but after exchanging this look I was prepared to answer Mai Lo.
“We are going to Kai-Nong,” I said, with an air of unconcern. “Whenever you are ready, we will begin the journey.”