No more was said about the motor boat, and they continued on their walk to the shore. Here they found their rowboat as they had left it, and entering, shoved off, and continued their row. They went a little further than at first anticipated, and consequently had to hurry to get back in time for supper, and even then were the last students to enter the dining hall.
As he passed to his seat Dave had to walk close to Link Merwell. When the bully saw him he started and stared in amazement. Then he looked around and stared at Phil and Gus. He leaned over and spoke to Nat Poole, who sat close at hand.
"They are back!" he whispered.
"Who? Porter and his crowd?" And now the dudish pupil looked equally amazed.
"Yes,—look for yourself."
Nat Poole did look, and his face became a study. As soon as possible he and Merwell finished their evening meal and went outdoors.
"Somebody must have stopped at the island and taken them off," said Merwell, when he felt safe to speak without being overheard.
"I suppose that must be it or else——" Nat Poole stopped short and turned pale.
"Or what?"