Page:Cornelia Meigs--The island of Appledore.djvu/217

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The Island of Appledore
197

ing of great fleets for battle, no spectacular deeds of glory, no frequent chances for the winning of undying fame. It was to be hard work, unwearying vigilance, dull days of patrolling and long, long nights of watching. So America was to be guarded, so her Allies were to be given aid. It would take many men to do it, and each last one must bear his full part. He went back along the point and up the beach path, thinking deeply.

What was his surprise on seeing Johann Happs again; he who should have been at home sleeping was, instead, hurrying toward the wharf with a bundle under his arm. When Billy called to him he did not stop, merely hastened on the faster. Finally, however, Billy’s flying feet overtook him, the boy’s hand was laid upon his arm and he was forced to turn about.

“Oh, it’s you!” he exclaimed in evident relief, “I thought it might be some one else.” He fumbled in his pocket. “The hotel clerk had this message for you; I told him I would deliver it and had almost forgotten all about it.”

He drew out an envelope and handed it to Billy. It was a cablegram, the answer to the