Underneath was a lot of reading matter, which, as the boys hastily perused it, they saw was an account of the robbery of Mr. Slade’s store, and a description of Noddy, who, it was stated, had been kidnapped by a gang of river thieves. A reward of $500 was offered for the arrest and conviction of the thieves, while Mr. Nixon offered to pay a like sum for the return of his son. The posters were signed by Chief Dalton.
“Well, things are certainly doing back in Cresville,” remarked Ned, as Jerry posted the letter. “Mr. Nixon still thinks Noddy was stolen away.”
“Wouldn’t it be fun if we could land the thieves and Noddy too,” said Bob. “That would be a thousand dollars.”
“I guess if we landed the thieves Noddy would not be far off,” spoke Jerry in a low tone. “I don’t believe he would rob the store, but I’m afraid he’s gotten in with a bad gang that would. Hello, here’s another notice.”
There was one on the opposite wall. It was not so large as the other, and was an announcement that the following Saturday there would be a regatta at the lake, in which there would be rowing, sailing, swimming and motor boat races.
“What’s the matter with us entering?” asked Bob.
“I guess we could,” commented Jerry. “I see our friend John Smith is in charge. We can probably find out all particulars from him. But come on, we’d better be getting to the island or we’ll find it taken.”
They learned from the postmaster how to get to Deer Island, and, purchasing a few supplies, and some butter, which they had neglected to bring along, they set out.
Deer Island was about an hour’s run from the village of Eastport, and as they neared it they saw the boat they had met the evening before cruising about.
“Dartaway ahoy!” exclaimed Mr. Smith, who, as the boys could now see, was a man about twenty-five years old.