[CHAPTER XIV]
FRIENDS IN TIME OF NEED
“That’s so, Jack; unless he can produce the little sister we’ve got to believe his fine yarn is all a fraud,” Josh observed seriously.
“Did you say as much to him, Jack?” questioned George.
“I did,” came the ready reply.
“And what was his reply to that?” asked Buster.
“I gathered from his gestures and actions,” explained Jack, “that he stood ready, yes, and anxious, to go into the woods near by and get his sister, if only we gave him permission. So I thought I’d put it up to the rest of you first.”
“Oh, tell him to go and fetch her along,” sneered George. “If he really has got a little sister, and she’s hungry, why, I’d be willing to go on half rations myself to help out. I may be suspicious of him, but there isn’t a stingy bone in my whole body.”
“We know that, George,” Jack told him quickly, “and since you seem willing I’ll let the poor fellow know about it right away. You can see how eagerly he’s watching us now, because he understands what I’m telling you.”
“Tell him supper’s about ready, and that he ought to hurry,” explained Buster.
Jack had another short interview with the young Serbian. Then the other sprang hastily to his feet and ran off, looking back once or twice, and smiling as he waved his hand toward Jack.