not in a good
position to mark and follow a course with intelligence. I have spoken
thus fully on the subject, in order to warn you, that under no
circumstances should you ever set out on such a mission as you have with
the least cloud of excitement. It is far better not to go at all."

It was a warning the boys never forgot.

CHAPTER XIV

THE RAISING OF THE FLAG AND ANGEL'S PART IN IT

On the return home that evening they were surprised to find Red Angel
absent. Frequently he would go with them on their trips, but he was
purposely left at home on this occasion. He had ample opportunity to
roam at will during their absence, and had never strayed away.

"It is very singular he cannot be found. I searched the house, the shop,
and the cattle range, and he is nowhere in sight."

It was a grief to all to miss him, as all had learned to appreciate his
mischievous tricks, and George had taken a delight in "educating" him.
Probably now, that he had grown to a more mature age, the spirit of the
wild life possessed him, and he had taken French leave at the first
opportunity.

George missed him more than Harry, because as cooking was one of
George's accomplishments, and as honey was the weak spot in Red Angel,
the kitchen was an attraction, and the reward for service in the kitchen
was this delicious sweet.

Their stock of this was running low. George was not as liberal with
honey of late, and after ruminating on the subject of the disappearance,
he concluded that Red Angel had cause for "running away."

The next morning while at breakfast, who should appear at the door but
Red Angel, his long fingers and palms holding a quantity of nuts. He
evidently saw that the welcome was most enthusiastic on the part of all.
With the utmost gravity he shambled across the floor and deposited the
nuts on the table and took his usual place in the most matter-of-fact
way, and commenced on the nuts as though it was part of a solemn duty.

George's hand reached out for the honey; Angel saw it, a quizzical look
came on his face--a real orang smile--and he forgot about the nuts.

In a spirit of fun George helped himself without offering any. This was
too much for the animal, and with a shrewd, calculating look he pushed
the nuts over to George.

Did he get any honey after this? George could not resist this appeal;
and after Angel got it, and George helped himself to nuts, the Simian
approval was very marked. Do you think he rea