“Well, Andy and Frank!” exclaimed Mr. Racer, when he could grasp their hands. “You’ve given us a fine scare.”
“We didn’t mean to,” spoke Andy.
“And we have the man who caused all the trouble,” added Frank. “He’s a prisoner, dad. See, Paul. Here’s the man we’ve been after.”
Paul Gale pressed to the side of the motor craft as it floated near the raft. At once a strange change came over the lad’s face. His cheeks flushed and his eyes grew bright. There was a look of fear, and then it gave place to one of anger. As for the prisoner he tried to turn his head away, but his bonds held him.
“Ha! Now I remember!” cried Paul. “I know you, James Shallock! I remember all! It all comes back to me when I see you face to face.”
“Who is he?” asked Frank eagerly.
“And who are you, if you can tell us?” demanded Mr. Racer. This was more important than learning about the prisoner. Frank and Andy thought it even more to the point than learning how their father had come to their rescue. While, as for Mr. Racer, as long as his boys were safe he could forgive them the anxiety they had caused him. “Who are you, Paul?” demanded the silk merchant.
“I am—I am—” the lad hesitated. He seemed to be undergoing a severe mental struggle. “I am Paul—Bartlett!” he cried. “That’s it! I remember it all now! And this man, who tried to swindle my sick father and myself, ought to be in jail!”
“That’s where he’ll be, soon,” declared Frank.
“Tell us about it,” urged Andy.