"I'll hurry back and tell the boys I found you and you're on your way," shouted Max as he ran down the street toward home.
Mr. Perry led the way toward the dock at a rapid pace. Presently they found themselves in front of a hardware store, and the owner of the Catwhisker stopped and said:
"I'm going in here a minute."
He entered, and Mr. Baker and Cub followed, wondering a little as to the motive of the boy's father. But they were not long left in doubt.
"Have you any fire-arms on sale here?" Mr. Perry asked, addressing the proprietor.
"Small or large?" the latter inquired.
"Small."
"Right this way."
He stepped behind a show case in which was a display of automatics and revolvers. Mr. Perry selected one of the former and a box of cartridges and took out his pocketbook to pay for them.
"I believe I'll take one, too," interposed Mr. Baker, also producing a purse.