“This lake isn’t connected with the tide.”
“Then there’s a leak in it.”
“Are you sure, Ned?”
“Take a look.”
The two youths hurried down to the edge of the water. Ned pointed to the Dartaway. The water had receded so much that the propellor was part way out.
“You know how it was when we left it,” said Ned. “Now look at it. I tried to get the boat off into deeper water but I couldn’t. Queer, isn’t it?”
“More than queer,” responded Jerry in tired accents, for he was very weary. “This is serious, Ned. We’ll have to do something.”
“Better have something to eat first,” suggested Ned. “You’re played out. I’ll make some coffee.”
He lighted the fire and soon had some of the steaming beverage ready. He took some and so did Jerry. Then they looked at Bob. The poor chap was no better, but the boys were a little encouraged that he was no worse.