"Hello, Jack. Have you got anything to eat?"
A hearty laugh followed the question. Jack's father, for it was indeed he, knew the appetites of the Fortuna's crew.
"Sure we have," cried the delighted Jack. "When did you arrive?"
"Just now," declared his father. "Mr. Geyer and I came down to see if you needed any help and have just walked down from the railroad. Your 'bus line," he added with a wink, "is not running."
"Oh, I'm so glad you got here," Jack replied.
"Are we in time?" queried Mr. Stanley.
"No, not in time to be of help when we needed you most," Jack answered; "but Rowdy took your place. Now we're just getting ready to count the money. Want to help?"
"What?" questioned Mr. Stanley. "Surely there was nothing to that story about the buried treasure. Geyer," to his companion, "look at what these boys have unearthed. Isn't that astounding?"
Introductions all round were followed by a hearty lunch of fish, sweet potatoes, canned fruit, corn pone and coffee prepared by Doright, who had been at once assigned to the task upon the return of the treasure hunters.
Upon opening the chest it was found to contain a quantity of gold and other coins, as well as a number of jewels in settings. Mr. Geyer, the attorney, who was versed in those matters, informed the boys that the coins were of great value because of their age and excellent condition. Collectors, he said, would be glad to pay far in excess of their original face or intrinsic value.