Page:Zodiac stories by Blanche Mary Channing.pdf/147

130 funny. And why did n't Willie say something? That was the queerest thing of all! Where was Willie, anyway? He tried to see around the room; he called in a faint voice, "Willie!"

The figure at the bedside came close and peered anxiously into his face. It was his uncle!

Roy looked up at him, and held out a wavering little hand.

"Uncle Robert," he said weakly, "I suppose you are going to put us on bread and water, but I want you to let Willie off the easiest; he would never have run away but for me. I made him."

Mr. McAllister strode to the window and blew his nose. Then he came back.

"Eh, my lad," he said wistfully, "What made you run away from me?"

"We thought you did n't like us, and we meant to be sailors," was the simple answer. "Please,—where is Willie?" he went on eagerly.