Though he did not say so, Jerry was also a little anxious. The weather looked anything but promising, and he had small respect for Noddy’s ability to manage a motor boat in a calm, let alone a storm. Still there seemed to be no cause for alarm.
The craft might have been stalled, but he did not believe Noddy would venture far from shore, and, in the event of a breakdown, he could signal to other boats, as there were several about the harbor.
It was still quite light, and would not be dark for another hour. It was no use worrying, Jerry thought, until there was something to get excited over.
They all went down to the dock, however, and scanned the sea for a sight of the boat containing the girl and Noddy. Though there were several craft in sight the boys did not notice Noddy’s, which they had come to know from seeing it several times. It was one with a blue hull, distinguishable for some distance.
“I vote we eat,” said Bob, as he turned to go back to the house.
“It wouldn’t be polite,” suggested Ned. “We’re only visitors.”
As they walked up the stone steps leading to the house, the boys were met by Elkwood. The man had a scowl on his face.
“It’s time you chaps were moving,” he said in surly tones. “I don’t want you hanging around here.”
“Why, Mr. Hardack asked us to stay,” put in Jerry.