Don't delay a minute longer than that. Hustle it!"
Phil darted out and back to the car. Every nerve in his body
was centered on the work in hand. He ran to Conley's berth
and shook him.
"What is it?" mumbled Billy sleepily.
"Get up and come into the stateroom. There is business on hand."
Billy hopped out of bed, wide awake instantly, and ran to
the stateroom.
Phil briefly explained the situation and what he had planned
to do. After he had finished Billy eyed him approvingly.
"You're a wonder," he said. "What about breakfast?"
"I am having some prepared at a restaurant. But the men will not
have time to eat it. They may take it with them and eat it on
the road."
"I'll rout out the crew," returned Billy, hurrying back into
the car.
There was much grumbling and grunting, but as soon as the men
were thoroughly awake they were enthusiastic. Not a man of them
but that wanted to see this bright-faced, clean-cut young car
manager beat out his adversaries.
By the time the men had washed and dressed the rigs began
to arrive. These were quickly loaded with brushes, paste
cans and paper, all with scarcely a sound, the men speaking
in subdued tones by Phil's direction.
The darkness before the dawn was over everything.
At last all was in readiness.
Phil handed each man his route.
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