CHAPTER XI
THE ESCAPE
“Hold us prisoners?” burst out several of the boys in chorus.
“That’s what, lads. I had a little work to do at the stern, and I overheard a talk between Ferguson and the mate. They got it all fixed with the cap’n to hold you till your folks pay a whole lot of money to have you set free.”
“The rascals!” cried Jack, indignantly. “I knew they had something up their sleeve! I said so several times!”
“I guess the quicker we make a break for liberty the better,” put in Gif.
“I’ll not stay on this schooner another night if I can possibly help it!” was the way Ralph expressed himself.
“Are you sure you can get the gasoline and the grub and water?” questioned Fred, hopefully.
“Yes, lad. But, of course, some o’ you have got to help me.”
“We’ll all help!” came eagerly from Randy. “Just tell us how we can work it.”