“Likely to. We came a good ways behind Mr. Whale, and we haven’t gone back very far.”
With the curtains down, and a couple of lanterns lighted inside, the Dartaway’s interior was a cosy enough place. Bob insisted on getting another meal, in spite of the fact that one had been served not so long ago.
“That wasn’t a regular supper,” he declared. “This is,” and he started the gasolene stove.
“We must set a watch,” said Sam. “Have to take turns steering. There are four of us, and we’d better make it in two shifts. Jerry and I will take the first one.”
Ned and Bob declared they didn’t feel like taking the time to sleep before their watch was called, as the novelty of the night at sea was too much for them. So they reclined on the bunks, talking, while Sam went to the wheel, and Jerry looked after the engine.
A little wind had sprung up and the sea was heaving more than at any time since the strange cruise began. Still the Dartaway was not in trouble. She slid over the waves like a duck, and made good time, though it was guess work steering her.
They had been cruising in the teeth of the wind for about an hour, and Ned and Bob were beginning to get a little sleep, in spite of their desire to remain awake, when there came a curious sound from the engine.
It was a combined cough, wheeze and squeak, and Jerry who had been leaning back, jumped up to look at the motor. As he did so it came to a stop.
“What’s the trouble?” called Sam, from the wheel.
“Motor’s stuck, that’s all. I’ll fix it,” Jerry replied.