The Dartaway was in the lead. Close behind it, however, was the police craft. A short quarter mile separated the pursuers from the pursued.
“They’re giving up!” cried Detective Layton.
A minute later the craft ahead had run ashore. Out of her piled several men and Noddy Nixon. They set off on a run across the meadows which at that point bordered the river.
“Where are Bob and Ned?” exclaimed Jerry.
“They’re probably tied in the boat!” yelled Mr. Layton. “You look after them. The chief and I will see to the thieves!”
Jerry steered the Dartaway close to where the disabled boat was poking her nose into a mud bank. As soon as it was near enough to shore Mr. Layton leaped for the bank. He was followed by Chief Dalton and his men, who went off on the run after the thieves.
Jerry shut off the power and then leaped into the other boat. He saw Bob and Ned lying bound on the seats.
“Are you hurt?” he cried, but the boys could not answer because of the gags. Jerry saw what the trouble was and cut them. Then he released his friends, and with Andy Rush, chaffed their hands, which were numb from lack of circulation, caused by the tight ropes.