“It depends on what you tell us,” said Frank.
“I’ll tell you nothing!”
“Then we’ll take you where you will. I guess when Paul Gale sees you he’ll remember something about you that will put us on the right track.”
“Paul Gale! That’s not his name. It’s—you say he’ll remember?” and the man interrupted himself in some confusion. “Has he lost his mind?” The question was an eager one.
“He can’t remember—” began Andy, but Frank stopped him with a sudden gesture.
“When you tell us what we want to know, we’ll answer some of your questions,” the elder lad said. “Come on, Andy. Let’s have a look at the wrecked motor boat. Maybe we can find some clues there.”
“You keep away from that boat!” cried the man savagely. “It’s mine. I order you to keep away!” He struggled desperately to get loose, but could not.
“We’ll do as we please now,” said Frank. “You had your way long enough. We’re going to solve this mystery. Come, Andy.”
The man glared at them, but he could not help himself. He watched them go toward the boat and muttered threats at them. But the boys were not frightened.
The interior of the motor boat, which once had been an expensive craft, was all confusion. It plainly showed the effects of the fire and explosion, and the battering of the sea. The hull, however, was sound, or it would have sunk.