“The one below has a white flash and two red ones,” commented Jerry.
“Yes, that’s the difference, and it’s a big one for sailors. You see it’s safe to come in right close to shore here. In fact that’s the only channel. If they stand too far out they’ll fetch up on the rocks or a sand bar. But they’ve got to do just the opposite in regard to the other light. They must keep at least two miles out, or they’ll get spitted on the rocks. So you see when they observe two red flashes only they know it’s time to stand in, and when they see a white flash and two red ones, it’s time to stay out. Easy, when you once know how; eh, Sam,” and the keeper clapped the sailor on the shoulder.
“That’s what, messmate. Can you show the boys the machinery?”
The three chums were much interested in the mechanism that revolved the lenses of the light, at the top of the tower.
“Do you have any help?” asked Jerry, thinking of the object of their trip.
“Oh, yes, I’ve got a man who shares the trick with me.”
“Same one you had?” asked Sam, saving Jerry the trouble of putting a question.
“No, this is a new feller came the other day.”
Jerry hardly looked at the other boys. He felt he was on the right track.
“Who is he?” Sam went on.