There was no breakfast that morning, though Chunky, who had picked up a cast-away piece of orange peel, was munching it with great satisfaction, rolling his eyes from one to the other of his companions.
"Don't. You might excite your appetite again," warned Ned.
Tad, who had been out for another exploring tour along the river, had returned, walking briskly.
"Well, did you find a trail?" demanded Chunky.
"No, but I have found a way out of this hole," answered Tad, with emphasis.
"What?" exclaimed Dad, whirling on him almost savagely.
"Yes, I have found a way. I'm going to carry out a plan and I promise that with good luck I'll get you all out of here safely. I shall need some help, but the thing can be done, I know."
"What is your plan?" asked the Professor.
"I'll tell you," said Tad. "But don't interrupt me, please, until I have finished."