After a long row, the vicinity of the huge yacht was reached.
She loomed up before them, bulky and black, and the dipping oars wielded by the river-thieves made no sound as the four boats drew near to their prospective prey.
Finally they touched the sides, and the grappling irons were thrown up and caught on the sides of the vessel.
Then, one by one, the river pirates mounted to the deck.
One man was left in each boat, leaving ten to do the work aboard the ship.
Both Nick and Chick were of the latter party. Everything seemed silent and deserted.
Not a sign of life appeared aboard the Nourhemal, except for the presence of the midnight marauders who were there to steal.
Gentleman George knew that there were several men there, however, but he believed them to be sleeping, and thought to surprise them in their bunks.
The robbers crept toward the cabin. Gentleman George was in advance, and he tried the door.
Better luck than he expected was awaiting him, for the door was not fastened.