"That's the way to do it," said William, approvingly. "We will fool them so completely that they will not want to hear of smugglers again for six months."
"Let's go and get some breakfast," said George. "Never go to work on an empty stomach, you know."
"Yes, come on," said Harry, taking each of the captive coast-guards by the arm; "we never feed our prisoners on half rations."
After "stowing away" a large supply of bread and milk, the smugglers, in company with their prisoners, again repaired to the boat-house. By this time it was five o'clock, and the breeze which the coast-guards had predicted began to spring up, and promised to freshen into a capital "sailing wind."
In a few moments the real provisions were all packed away, as closely as possible, in the Speedwell, and the load was as large as she could well carry, there being scarcely room enough left for the action of the sails.
"I guess we are all ready now," said Frank; "so, Bill, you might as well drop down Ducks' Creek and sail out."
"All right," answered William.
And he and Thomas clambered down into the boat, with the prisoners, the sails were hoisted, and the Champion was soon hidden from sight by the tall reeds and bushes that lined the banks of the creek.
"Now, Harry," continued Frank, "Ben and I will take our boat and hide behind the point, and, in about five minutes, you may follow the Champion."
"Now, make use of your best seamanship," said Ben. "You can lead them a long chase, if you try."