“But we didn’t know what you planned to do,” said Chester.
“I know you didn’t,” said Hal. “That is why I asked your promises before I told you.”
“But I don’t think it is fair,” protested Chester.
“I don’t care what you think,” replied Hal. “You have both promised, so that’s all there is about it.”
In vain did Chester and Lieutenant Anderson protest. Hal was firm.
“Come, now,” he said at last. “You are making it more dangerous for me every moment you stand here arguing about it. Get in the boats and return at once.”
Slowly Chester and Lieutenant Anderson complied with his request. The men already were in the boats, and Hal stood and watched them row away.
“I shall be back some time to-night or in the morning,” he called to Chester; “but,” and he smiled grimly to himself, “if I were you, I wouldn’t wait up for me.”
Chester and Lieutenant Anderson waved their hands in reply, and with one last look Hal turned and made his way back in the direction of the farmhouse.