"Do you think you will ever be able to satisfy that appetite of yours?" laughed Phil.
"I hope not," answered Teddy solemnly. "That's the only fun in life—that and the donkey."
Just then Mr. Sparling passed through the cabin on the way to his stateroom and office. He gave Phil a significant glance, to which the Circus Boy did not respond. A few minutes later, however, Phil strolled out to the deck. Reaching it he turned quickly and hurried aft, entering the passageway there and going directly to Mr. Sparling's quarters.
"Come in," invited the owner in response to Phil's gentle rap.
The blinds had been drawn up, though the windows were let down into their casings out of sight. Phil noted this in a quick glance.
"Sit down and tell me what has happened, Phil. I am sure you have made some sort of discovery."
"I have and I haven't."
"What do you mean?"
"That I am deeper in the mire than ever."
"Tell me about it."