Both of the gasolene launches, with eight of the college boys on board, returned to the Thistle. The thick smoke of the burning oil was still rolling up the companionways and hatchways. But, with the deck cleared of passengers, the crew had a better chance to fight the flames.
“Captain, what can we do?” demanded Dick, as he climbed on deck, followed by Stanley and by Allen Charter, who owned the second launch.
“I don’t know,” answered the master of the vessel, almost helplessly. “That oil burns like fury.”
“Wouldn’t sand be good for the flames?” questioned Allen.
“Yes—but I ain’t got none—that is, not more’n a shovelful or two.”
“There is sand up at the boat dock!” cried Stanley. “They are going to use it for the new garage foundation.”
“Maybe we can haul the steamer up there,” suggested another student.
“We can try it,” answered Allen Charter. “What do you say, Captain?”
“I’m willing—if you can budge her.”
“She can’t be stuck very fast,” said Tom.