"Like as not—and they are a good bit away from the schooner by this time."
"Bring a lantern and we'll take a look around."
A lantern was brought, and a few minutes later a small boat was lowered, manned by Luke and three other sailors. Captain Ponsberry went with them, and the searchers remained out the best part of an hour.
"They've given us the slip clean and clear," declared the master of the Columbia, on returning. "It was a risky thing to undertake in such weather as this."
"Yes, and for all we know they may be at the bottom of the harbor," answered Tom Grandon.
"Which place might be jest what they deserve," grumbled Luke Striker, as he helped to stow away the small boat once more.
[CHAPTER XIX]
THE DISAPPEARANCE OF THE ENEMY
As soon as Peterson and Shamhaven threw the blocks of wood overboard they darted for the companionway of the schooner and crept noiselessly down to the cabin.
The apartment was deserted, and the swinging lamp over the center table was turned low. On the table rested several charts which Captain Ponsberry had been consulting before joining Tom Grandon on deck.