Dam Li was all sympathy.
"You talkee China boy. Him findum one time plenty quick," he announced confidently.
"All right," I said; "only you won't get anything just for trying, mind. You'll have to succeed."
"China boy no wantchee nothing," replied Dam Li reproachfully.
"Him only wantchee officer smile allee same like dog waggee tail when lations come back," added Ah Sin by way of embroidery.
"Thank you," I said gravely. "And when do you propose to start replacing my smile?"
Apparently there was no time like the present, so back we went to the Mess and they set to work. Their opening move was somewhat startling, even to me who knew them of old.
"Giveum China boy one piecee blead," commanded Dam Li.
"What for?" I demurred.
"China Boy eatum blead and talkee plenty good player [prayer]," said Ah Sin. "Then thief-man too muchee flighten' an' giveum back jug plenty dam quick."