“Them’s my sentiments,” Herb spoke up; and both Nick and Jimmie nodded their heads violently, to prove that they were in no way behind their comrades in wishing to do a good deed toward one who had long been an open enemy.
“Then let’s consider what way we ought to go about it,” Jack proceeded, with an air of business. “It’s out of the question for us to try and go back the way Joe came. We couldn’t make it under hours; and from his looks none of us are hankering after the experience. But there is a way to get there quickly.”
“The boats?” George put in.
“One boat ought to carry all who will go, and let that be the Comfort, with five of us on board, taking the two guns to make a good show,” Jack proceeded.
Nick immediately set up a whine.
“I guess I have feelings,” he declared. “Don’t I know you’re just going to shut me out of this rescue game? I’m ready to do my part as well as the next one, ain’t I? What you want to leave me behind for?”
“You’ve got to obey orders, Buster,” said George.
“And besides, with so many aboard, the bully old Comfort might founder,” Josh thought it necessary to remark.
“Besides, you are going to have your share of the work, and along a line you always like,” Jack went on; “for while we’re gone, it shall be your duty to make a new brew of coffee, fill Joe here cram up with all he can eat, and have something ready for Clarence when we bring him back. So you see, Buster, your duty is as important as any of ours. Every one in their particular line. You can’t fight as well as Jimmie here; but you do know how to provide against starvation.”
Nick smiled broadly again, entirely appeased.