“I couldn’t be certain, but offhand I would think he had been beaten.”
“Then our theory that he’s a runaway may be right after all. By the way, doctor, the boy can be moved safely? I thought I’d take him to my home for the night.”
“He’ll be all right if he doesn’t exert himself,” the doctor replied. “Keep him warm and quiet. If you need me in the morning, telephone and I’ll make a more complete examination.”
After the doctor had gone, Mr. Hatfield and the Cubs prepared to close up the Cave for the night. Deciding to leave the treasure chest buried on the beach, the boys voted to resume the interrupted hunt at their next weekly meeting.
Mrs. Holloway served sandwiches, chocolate and cookies to all the Cubs. Jacques refused to eat anything but did accept another cup of hot beverage.
“Now let’s all sing the Cub pledge before we leave,” Mr. Hatfield proposed.
The boys gathered around and to the tune of America, warbled:
“‘Cub friendships, pure and deep,
We promise we will keep
Our pledge to thee;