THEY'RE OFF AND RUNNING
"Gee, it feels great to be home," Gilligan said as he climbed into his hammock. He looked around the hut as though it had been months or years since seeing it.
"Gilligan, you were only Howell's servant for a day - not even, with the way you destroyed his clothing," Skipper said, amazed as Gilligan had run back, right after Thurston left them.
"I know, Skipper, but I just couldn't stand even that long not being your first mate. I didn't want you to hire someone new," Gilligan answered, and the Skipper couldn't help but laugh.
"Now how do you suppose I'd do that? The only other male here is the Professor," Skipper said, and Gilligan's eyes widened.
"You think he's interested? You do seem to be more buddies with him, these days," Gilligan responded. This time the Skipper didn't laugh as he saw true fear in his friend's eyes.
"Little buddy, you have nothing to fear. If Howell hadn't handed you over I'd have stayed up all night to get you back and don't you forget it!"
"Really Skipper? Wow, I can't wait to tell..." Gilligan said but stopped realizing he almost gave away the secret of his prized possession… his diary.
"You think Rex is happy with Herman and Gretchen?" he asked instead to change subject.
"I'm sure he is, must be getting crowded in that trough – you've got four pets now," Skipper agreed, avoiding the subject as well. He was positive Gilligan was talking about his family, though.
Gilligan smiled relieved the Skipper. He didn't ask about his near slip-up and then he hurried out to see how Rex the turtle was fairing with his other pets.
Sitting down in a chair he had built recently so he would have a place to relax with his animals, he smiled at them and then began to write.
Dear diary,
tertles are on the lose. now I got fore pets. Rex isnt the best racer buts he is a good listinier, I luv this iland.
Gilligan