“Jack, I truly need and want you,” the widow repeated. “Since my own sons grew up, I’ve wanted another boy the worst way. One I could depend on. Shucks! I wouldn’t have a boy without spirit!”
“I’ll never run away again,” Jack said earnestly. “I promise!”
“When a Cub gives a promise, he never breaks it,” Mr. Hatfield reminded him. “So be sure you really mean it.”
“I’m not a Cub,” Jack said slowly. “I’d like to be one someday.”
“There’s no reason why you can’t join the organization if you’re willing to live up to the rules,” Mr. Hatfield assured him. “We’ll give you a little start now. Boys, show Jack the Cub sign.”
The boys all raised the two first fingers of their right hands, holding them high.
“What does that mean?” Jack asked curiously.
“Those two fingers signify the ears of the Wolf,” Dan explained.
“It’s the Indian sign for ‘intelligence,’” Mr. Hatfield added. “If you want to be a Cub, Jack, you must learn to use your head instead of your emotions. Remember that the next time you’re inclined to do something rash.”
“I’ll remember,” Jack grinned, making the sign with his right hand. “From now on, you can depend on me. I promise!”