“I believe you’re right, Jimmie,” decided Ned. “They certainly have got the speed!” he added admiringly as the craft approached.
“Get ready to hail ’em!” cried Frank. “Get out a flag!”
“Haven’t got a flag aboard this wagon!” scorned Jimmie. “What do you think this is—a dreadnaught with full equipment?”
“Then take off your shirt and wave that at ’em!”
“Just the idea!” agreed Jimmie, proceeding to follow the advice.
Bracing himself against a thwart amidships Jimmie waved the improvised distress signal. His efforts were not unavailing.
“They see you, Jimmie!” shouted Jack, presently. “There’s a man on the bridge looking at you with glasses. They’re shifting the helm!”
“I can see two or three men standing on the bridge!” announced Ned. “They are examining us pretty closely. Wonder who they are?”
The boys were not long left in doubt. Way was checked on the stranger. As the vessel drew close to the small boat a churning of foam at the stern told the lads that the engines were reversed in an effort to stop. Presently the stranger ranged alongside. A line was flung to the boys. They were towed beside the other under bare steerageway.
Fending their craft off the larger vessel Ned explained their plight to an officer. They were invited aboard the steamer. Their boat was hoisted aboard, where it was carefully stowed.