Pomp thought of awakening Barney and enlisting his aid.
But he reflected that the Celt would be certain to disagree with his scheme.
There was no other way but to assume the responsibility himself. Pomp drew a deep breath.
Then he fell to listening.
All was silent as the grave.
“Sho!” he muttered. “Dar ain’t no danger at all. I’ll jest hab dat watah as suah as I’m born.”
He quickly slid back the bolt in the door and opened it.
Then he stepped out of the wagon. In another moment he glided down to the water’s edge.
Pomp flung himself flat and began to drink of the creek water.
But he had not taken one drink when he became aware of an appalling sensation. He turned his head and glanced back at the Steam Man.