Night came on. Banana groves and mango trees lost detail, merging into an indistinct shoreline. No longer could the Explorers see the thatched-roof huts as their craft raced along.
Everyone was relieved when at last the boat reached the wide Magdalena river, and ultimately Calamar.
“We’ll stay here tonight,” Mr. Livingston announced. “Tomorrow we’ll proceed by boat.”
As their craft made dock, the Scouts stiffly arose and gathered their luggage. Willie tried to help Mrs. Rhodes, but she ignored his hand as she stepped ashore.
“Goodbye ma’am,” he mumbled politely.
“Goodbye?” she repeated, with the faintest trace of a smile. “Oh, I rather think we shall meet again.”
“At Santa Marta?”
“There or elsewhere.” With a hard, mirthless laugh, Mrs. Rhodes turned and walked away.
Chapter 9
OFF COURSE
For the next few days, the Scouts saw no more of Mrs. Rhodes. Upon their arrival at the banana port of Santa Marta, they were disturbed to learn that Mr. Corning had failed to send any message for them.