"Of course you are right," Frank said, "It seems cruel to sail away and leave them here."
The steamer, as shown by the column of smoke, was now approaching the southern end of the island, and would soon be in a position from which the Manhattan might be seen.
"If we are going at all," Ned said, with a sigh, "we may as well be moving. We ought to be able to make the north end by the time they gain the south end. It will be a game of chase, I reckon. I hope the boys will understand."
"They certainly will," replied Frank. "They know well enough we are no quitters, and that there is usually a good reason for what you do."
The Manhattan was soon in motion, speeding at the rate of fifteen or eighteen miles an hour toward the north end of the island. Ned watched the smoke of the steamer intently as the race progressed. Finally the point at the north was turned, and, much to the surprise of both boys, they saw Pat standing on the beach beckoning to them in a manner full of excitement.
"There's been something doing," said Frank, with a shiver.
CHAPTER XIII.
OF THE WILD CAT PATROL, MANILA.
The smoke from the steamer was now on the south end of the island, moving along toward the east with a speed which showed Ned that it would be impossible to outfoot the larger craft.