Nearer and nearer it whirred; a moment later it swooped down on the beach a short distance from them. The pilot climbed out of the cockpit, and the girls, recognizing him instantly, uttered a wild cry of joy. It was Bertram Chase!
“Bert!” they both cried at the same time, as he rushed forward and seized their hands. “What miracle brought you here?”
“I found out about your flight at the Honolulu airport,” he replied. “You might know I’d come after you, no matter where you went!”
“But what are you doing in Hawaii?” demanded Dot.
“I sailed from Los Angeles the very night I left you—after I put the Ladybug into the airport. We’re on the track of a counterfeiter, and a clue pointed to Honolulu. Money turned in at a bank there. So I was sent to Hawaii. Lucky break for me!” He looked admiringly at Linda.
“That’s great!” exclaimed Dot. “Leave your plane here and come along with us in Mr. Jardin’s car. We think we’re going to nab Linda’s double at last.”
Mr. Jardin took the wheel of his runabout and Linda sat beside him. In the rumble-seat behind, Dot and Bert Chase laughed and talked excitedly of the adventure.
Over the beach, through lanes that could hardly be called roads, the little car threaded its way into the heart of the island. Fifteen minutes later, within sight of a low, straw-covered bungalow, it came to a stop.
“This is Long’s place,” announced Jardin. “Do you all want to come in with me?”
“Certainly,” replied Dot, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.