The sentry must have turned to look at the light. The kayak passed close enough to the guard to hear him ask on his radio what was happening.

"Clem claims he caught some Indians from the village trying to steal gas from the helicopters, and while he was holding one for questioning, another hit him from the rear."

"Our choppers don't use gas."

"I know. I don't think Clem is telling us the truth. We found part of a woman's panties on the beach. The captain is of the mind that Clem smuggled a kalootch in for fun and games. She must have got mad and conked him one."

"What does Mr. Bartleson think about this?"

"You nuts? We decided it wasn't any of his concern —you know what I mean — and we've left him asleep."