"
"Let's give it," the rest shouted in unison; "every cent of it."
"But what about the prize?" the captain asked.
"Let it go," was the general response.
"And the motor-boat?"
"We can do without that, eh, boys?" This from Rod.
"Yes, yes. Hurrah for Whyn!" and the scouts in their loyal enthusiasm
threw their caps into the air, and shouted at the top of their voices.
Into the captain's eyes gleamed a light of joy and triumph. He felt at
that moment like a general whose men had consented to make a mighty
sacrifice for a great cause. He tried to say something, but the words
would not come. Instead, he stepped up to each scout, and reached out
his big right hand. This action on the part of their leader had more
effect in filling their hearts with pride than an outburst of eloquence.
They understood something of what the captain felt, and how pleased he
was at their decision.
"But remember, lads," he reminded them, "our money'll go only a little
way, and we mustn't git too excited jist yit."
"How much will it take?" one of the boys asked.
"I can't say fer sure. But I wouldn't be a bit surprised if it should
take two thousand dollars."
"Oh!" was the astonished exclamation from all.
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