"Baldwin, neither of us is in what might be called the pink of condition, and young Giddings may put up a fight in his half-crazed way. Don't we need a little real brawn with us?"
"Taking Captain Halstead with us, do you mean?"
"That was the idea that had come into my head," nodded Mr. Ross.
"Yes; it would be an excellent idea. Captain, you will go with us. Leave your first officer in command here until we return."
"Very good, sir."
Tom Halstead saluted, then withdrew. He gave his orders quickly, not deeming it necessary to mention any phase of the story of young Gaston Giddings to his comrades of the Motor Boat Club.
As soon as the launch was alongside Tom hastened to inform Mr. Baldwin. The entire party thereupon came out on deck, gathering at the side gangway. They speedily embarked in the tender, in which Jeff sat where he could handle both engine and steering gear.
"Your instructions are clear, Mr. Perkins?" called Tom Halstead, softly, from the launch.
"Quite clear, sir," Ab replied. "The instructions will be followed to the letter."