“A real Cub always is square,” he emphasized, smiling across the room at Jacques. “Crooked people are unfair, even to themselves. So the Cub follows the law of God and man. I commend Jacques for being true to the ideals he was taught as a Cub. The organization is proud to claim him as a member.”
“Three cheers for Jacques!” proposed Dan.
The Cubs gave them with a will. Mr. Hatfield was on the verge of proposing a song, when footsteps were heard on the steps leading up to the Cave.
Everyone turned to see Mr. Manheim standing in the doorway. The owner of Skeleton Island looked a little embarrassed.
“Hope I’m not intruding,” he said awkwardly.
“Certainly not, Mr. Manheim,” the Cub leader replied. “The Cubs always are pleased to have visitors.”
“Matter of fact, I came here on business,” the island owner said, entering the clubroom. “May I have permission to speak a few words?”
“The floor is yours,” the Cub leader told him.
Mr. Manheim faced the circle of Cubs. He cleared his throat and then began:
“Boys, I owe you an apology. I’ve meant to come here before, but the truth is, I’ve been ashamed. You all know what happened at Skeleton Island. My man Jabowski, in whom I placed great trust, deceived me.”