“I think you had better remain on board,” said Alex, “and let Jule and I see about the fish. We are the only old and original fishermen in the party!”
“Go to it, then,” Clay agreed, “but don’t get into any nest of pirates and get your feet burned!”
The boys were glad to be away on the water again, for there were things they wanted to talk over. Jule was the first one to open the conversation.
“Alex,” he began, uncertain how his communication would be received, “what is going on on board the Rambler?”
“Why do you ask that?” came the quick reply. “Have you noticed anything unusual?”
“About Paul and Thede,” Jule went on, “I have a notion that an understanding of some sort exists between the two.”
“And Rube, too?” asked Alex.
“Yes, and Rube also!”
“What do you know about it?” demanded Alex. “What have you seen—or heard?”
“You have suspected, then?” asked Jule.