“We can moor her here,” said Frank. “All that is needed is some bumpers to keep her from rubbing against the rocks, and we may be able to find them on shore. There are two points of rock to which she can be made fast.”
In a very few moments the launch was moored against the rocky wall, and then Frank prepared to go ashore.
“Come, Hodge,” he said, “let’s see if we can find some timbers that will serve as bumpers.”
“I am with you,” said Bart.
“Take the lantern,” advised Dustan. “It may aid you in your search.”
So, linking the lantern chain over his arm, Frank started to climb up the face of the black rocks. The lantern swayed and gave out a changing, uncertain light, but it was better than no light.
Hodge followed Merry, but he took plenty of time to find the clefts in the rock and fasten his fingers there so that his hold was secure.
Reaching the top, Frank turned and gave Bart a hand, aiding him up. Then they leaned out, Frank holding the lantern at arm’s length, and looked down on the boat.
Dustan and Diamond were looking up at them, the light of the lantern showing their upturned faces.
“That would be a nice position for the launch if an enemy took a fancy to drop a few large rocks down on you,” said Merry.