“The same to you and more of it,” responded Ned. “I guess we all bear the marks of the saw-grass.”
This was so, for the fine keen edges of nature’s peculiar weapons had left their record on the hands and faces of all the travelers.
“I think this is where some of the leaves the Indian chief used on Jerry’s foot would come in handy,” remarked Ned.
“If we only had some,” retorted Bob with a groan. “Even some witch hazel wouldn’t be so bad, though it smarts at first.”
“I have some of the leaves,” the professor said. “I observed what kind of a plant they were from and gathered a supply the other day. I will get them.”
Removing most of their soaked garments, and wringing out the water, the boys and the scientist were soon busy pounding up the leaves to make a sort of ointment for their scratches. The foliage gave out a sticky salve which, when applied to the cuts made by the grass, soothed them.
“We look like a lot of Seminole Indians with our war paint on,” remarked Ned, and indeed the four did present a curious sight, for they were daubed with green stuff in streaks and patches.
“Now for some hot coffee,” announced Bob, as he set the gasoline stove going. “That will make us feel as well inside as the leaves do outside.”
“Trust Chunky for knowing what’s good for the inside,” retorted Ned. “However go ahead, Bob. We’re all with you.”
Warmed and exhilarated by the hot drink the travelers listened with better spirits to the patter of the rain on the awning. They got out some dry garments from the lockers and then, making up the folding bunks with which the _Dartaway_ was provided, they spent the rest of the night in comparative comfort.
The storm was over at sunrise, and as the boys peered from the curtained cabin they gazed out on scene of beauty. They were on the shore of a broad lagoon which gave entrance into Lake Okeechobee. Behind them, some distance back, was a dense forest, and, nearer to them was the dreadful saw-grass. Over the stretch of water myriads of birds were flying, while, every now and then, a splash and a shower of glistening drops told that a hungry fish was trying to get an early breakfast.
“How do you boys feel?” asked Mr. Snodgrass.
“Much better,” announced Jerry, and the others said the same. The pain from their cuts and scratches was all gone, so quick-acting was the Indian’s remedy. After breakfast they went ashore and got the tent and camp stuff which, though much scattered, had not suffered any material damage.