Geo walked down into the forecastle, still deserted except for Urson and Snake. "Well?" asked Urson, sitting up on the edge of his berth. "What did she tell you?"
"Why aren't you asleep?" Geo said heavily. He touched Snake on the shoulder. "She wants to see you now."
Snake stood up, started for the door, but then turned around.
"What is it?" Geo asked.
Snake dug into his clout again and pulled out the thong with the jewel. He walked over to Geo, hesitated, and then placed the thong around the older boy's neck.
"You want me to keep it for you?" Geo asked.
But Snake turned around and was gone.
"I wonder what they do?" said Urson. "Or did you find out. Come on, Geo, give up what she told you."
"Did Snake say anything to you while I was gone?"
"Not a peep," answered Urson. "I came no nearer sleep than I came to the moon. Now come on, what's this about?"