It took them some little time to force the padlock which held the chain to the staple, but together they accomplished it.
Then, lowering their sculls, they pushed out to sea.
"Free," murmured young Jack, exultantly; "free at last."
"Don't be too fast"
Now each took a scull, and with long, deep strokes they pulled for their own safe part of the coast.
Wind and tide were in their favour, and they shot through the water at racing pace.
"Pull round; here's our place. Now for it."
"Both together," said Harry Girdwood, excitedly.
Three long, vigorous strokes, and the boat ground far up high and dry upon the shingle.
They ran on wildly.