“Perhaps it would be as well to tow me,” replied the tramp. “I have some things in my boat I would not like to lose.”
The tow line was soon made fast to the Dartaway, and the boys resumed their trip which had twice been interrupted by accidents. They reached the island in safety, and soon were preparing some coffee and a light supper. The tramp fastened his boat to a tree that projected over the water, and, then sat at the rough table the boys had constructed under a canvas awning.
“I don’t believe I have been presented to you gentlemen,” said the tramp, as the night dinner was about to begin. Jerry laughing, introduced himself and his chums.
“Are you Aaron Slade’s son?” asked the tramp excitedly, as Ned’s name was mentioned.
[CHAPTER XXIV]
A QUEER MESSAGE
“Aaron Slade is my father,” replied Ned, wondering what object the tramp could have in asking.
“The one who was recently robbed?”
“The same.”