“If any one attempts to get in here we shall be able to see what is going on,” Roy whispered.
“And if the thing which made the noise is bent on mischief, the light of the lantern showing through the canvas might make matters worse.”
“But we must try to learn what’s the matter.”
“I’ll creep softly out if you fellows will follow. I’m willin’ to admit that it frightens me an’ don’t care to take the chances of going alone.”
“I’ll stay close at your heels.”
Ned started, but did not attempt to rise to his feet.
Convinced that an enemy was near at hand, such a course hardly seemed prudent, and he wriggled along over the sand until it was possible to gain a view of that portion of the island directly in front of the tent.
The stars were shining brightly and he could see surrounding objects distinctly, but nothing unusual met his gaze.
As a matter of course it was impossible to peer through the grove in the gloom, and while he was wondering if some animal was not among the trees, the fearsome noise was heard again.
It appeared to come from the rear of the tent, and Ned turned back to whisper to his companions: