Presently the Pow Wow concluded with all the Den members forming a “living circle.” In close formation, facing inward, each Cub grasped the thumb of the boy on his left, raising right hand high in the two-finger Cub sign.
Up and down like a pump handle went their hands as the boys shouted: “Akela, we’ll do our Best!”
At the word “Best,” all the Cubs snapped smartly into salutes.
“Now for grub!” shouted Red, breaking away. “That stuff in the kettle sure smells good!”
“Lead me to it,” yelled Chips.
Dan and Brad circulated among the parents, waiting until everyone had been served before they took their helpings of stew.
In the chill night air, the hot food exactly hit the spot. Time after time, the Cubs went back for more until the big kettle was nearly empty.
Brad and Dan sat slightly apart from the others, their faces splashed with firelight. They were silently staring out across the dark river, when Mr. Hatfield, coming up behind them, touched their shoulders.
“Don’t say anything to the other Cubs,” he warned in a low tone. “Just follow me to the beach.”
“What’s up?” Brad asked in surprise.