“Of course you are right,” admitted Clay. “It is a wonder we didn’t think of that before.”
The robbers now appeared to be holding a consultation as to the best means of getting one of the boys on board the Rambler. The boys could not catch a word, although the Rambler lay only a few feet from the shore.
The thunder and lightning were now almost continuous, and the robbers sought shelter in the cabin.
“Now’s our opportunity,” exclaimed Jule.
“I must be pretty dense,” said Clay. “If there’s a chance here I must have overlooked it.”
“What’s the matter with the stern deck?” ventured Jule. “I’ve known kids to get on board boats in that way before now!”
“Not in the face of a current like that!” replied Clay. “A boy couldn’t swim in that millrace any more than he could fly!”
“You just wait a second and I’ll show you!” replied Jule. “Anybody got a rope or a strong cord?”
“Alex has,” responded Clay. “I saw him put one into his pocket! Produce it, Alex!” he added, all excitement at the prospect of getting the best of the pirates.
“Who’s going to make the attempt?” Jule asked.