"If she comes close enough," said Captain Jerry pointedly. "Don't be too hopeful, my lads. She may pass us by."

CHAPTER XIII

THE CRUSOES OF SEVEN ISLANDS

All on board of the rowboat watched the thin trail of smoke with interest.

"I believe it is going away from us," said Dora.

"No, it is coming closer," said Nellie.

"It is certainly moving to the northward," put in Sam.

A quarter of an hour went by and the smoke came only a little nearer.

"She is a big steamer," said Captain Jerry. "But she aint comin' jest this way."

"You are sure?" cried Tom.