The factor signaled the old Indian housekeeper. “Pour us all some more coffee,” he directed. “I’m going to propose a toast.”
Dick and Sandy exchanged glances. What was the toast going to be, they wondered.
When the coffee cups were all filled and creamed and sugared, the old factor stood up and the boys did likewise. Lifting his cup high over his head, Mr. McClaren said:
“Here’s to the health of Dick Kent, fur trader, and may he never buy a pelt that sheds or trade a rifle for a black cat’s hide thinking it’s a black fox skin.”
The boys burst out laughing, but touched cups with Sandy’s uncle and drank the toast.
“Now let me give a toast,” Dick spoke up.
Assuming a gallant pose, Dick upraised his cup and said solemnly:
“Here’s to Factor McClaren the best sport in the world and the jolliest bachelor.”
It was Walter McClaren’s turn to laugh, and his big voice shook the very log beams of the dining room.
Sandy was about to propose another toast, when there came a knock at the door.
The factor motioned the housekeeper to open the door. All eyes turned to see the visitor. Into the living room of the cabin stamped a tall man, resplendent in the scarlet coat of the mounted.
“Hello there, Corporal McCarthy,” shouted the boys, recognizing the leader of their recent expedition.
The Corporal paused in the doorway leading into the dining room. He returned the boys’ greetings in kind, then drew himself up to attention, proudly displaying the medals on his chest, and saluted:
“Inspector Dunbar requests the presence of Dick Kent and Sandy McClaren,” announced the Corporal solemnly and impressively, “for presentation of special decorations in reward for their Arctic services with the Royal Northwest Mounted Police!”
Dick whistled, Sandy gasped, and both blushed, then Corporal McCarthy came around and shook their hands, slapping them on the back heartily, while Sandy’s uncle added his sincere congratulations.
“But what about Toma?” Dick asked the Corporal, when he had recovered from his embarrassment. “Is he left out?”
“S-s-h. The Inspector has a surprise for him,” whispered the Corporal. “A brand new 22 High Power rifle.”
So did the King’s policemen make happy hearts of their loyal and daring young servants.
