War Tactic. Don Pendleton

probably to make sure everything was under control. In the distance across the water, several vessels were now approaching.

      James pointed, but the captain shook his head.

      “You called for help?” McCarter asked the captain.

      “Navy coming,” the captain announced. “Hope you three check out.”

      “We will, mate,” McCarter said. “We will.” He took his signal mirror from a pouch on his web gear and angled it at the chopper. Hoping he was getting the message across, he did what he could to flash “port” a couple of times. Grimaldi got the hint, dipped the nose of the helicopter then turned and limped away.

      “There goes our ride,” James said.

      “I’m sure the captain here could be convinced to help us put in to port,” McCarter said. “Once he’s determined to his satisfaction that we’re not his enemies. Which I think he already understands, for the most part.”

      “I can feel his understanding through those four assault rifles,” Hawkins said.

      “People have different ways of expressing trust,” James said.

      McCarter wasn’t sure, but he thought he saw the Filipino captain crack a smile.

      “Trust issues,” the captain noted.

      “What’s that, mate?” McCarter asked.

      “I have,” the captain said, grinning.

      The troops lowered their weapons. James and Hawkins exchanged glances.

      “Don’t we all,” James said. He blew out the breath he had been holding. “Don’t we all.”