“It’s dogs!” he cried. “Two of ’em!”
As he spoke two savage looking creatures thrust their heads up over the low rail. They were large dogs, of the wolf-hound variety; great shaggy creatures, and they growled in a menacing manner.
“They must have left the dogs aboard when they so strangely deserted the ship,” said Mr. De Vere. “I suppose they’re glad to see us. They must be lonesome. Try again, Jerry. I would, if I had the use of my two arms.”
Once more Jerry prepared to ascend by means of the chains, but the dogs almost leaped over the rail at him, showing their teeth, while the hair on as much of their backs as could be seen stood up in ridges. Foam dripped from their jaws.
“Look out!” cried Bob. “Those dogs are mad! Be careful!”
Savage growls and barks from the angry beasts emphasized his words. There was no doubt of it. The dogs were mad from fear and hunger. They disputed the advance of the voyagers, and would not let them aboard.
“Try on the other side,” suggested Mr. De Vere.
The boat was worked around to the other side of the bow, but the dogs followed, and stood on guard there.
“Maybe we can get up at the stern,” said Jerry. “Perhaps the dogs can’t make their way aft.”
But it was the same there. The maddened animals were ready to fly at the throats of any one who should attempt to board the derelict.