Meanwhile Jerry and his chums had reached the porch, where they found Andy Rush awaiting them.
“When did it happen?” demanded Bob.
“Did you see him?” inquired Ned.
“Where did he go with our boat?” came from Jerry.
“Up the river!” panted the small chap, still breathing hard from his running and shouting. “I happened to come past the dock—I saw someone down there—it was dark—couldn’t make out who it was—thought it was you fellows—I yelled—wanted a ride—no answer—thought that was funny—ran down—just in time to see Noddy and Bill Berry start off—wow!”
“What did you do?” asked Ned.
“Told Noddy he’d better not take your boat—said I’d tell you.”
“What did he say?” Bob asked.
“Just laughed and put on more power. Better hurry, if you want to catch him!”
“Of course we do!” asserted Ned; “but how can we if he has our boat, a good start and is heading up stream? We’d better tell the police——”