"Little Bill" and "Surly Joe" were a badly frightened pair. Fairly stunned by the catastrophe, and fearful of the consequences of their act, they passed several very unpleasant days.
Their astonishment and relief were, therefore, unbounded at the good news, and soon after came the welcome intelligence that the Ramblers would not press any charges against them.
Even gratitude had a part in the make-up of "Little Bill" and "Surly Joe." When the boys next saw them, they looked very different from the bold spirits who had so defiantly sailed away on the "Spray."
"Surly Joe" in particular seemed ill at ease, and a worried look had replaced the scowl which usually rested upon his countenance.
After having, in his awkward fashion, thanked the boys, he motioned Bob to one side.
"Pardner," he began, in a husky whisper, "I've got somphin' partic'lar ter say."
"All right, Joe," said Bob. "Fire away."
The trapper scratched his head, looked down on the ground, and hesitated.
"Fact is, pardner, I 'most hates ter tell ye," he said, "but speakin' frankly—meanin' no offense, yer understands,—I—I——"
"Go ahead, Joe," encouraged Bob.