“Yes,” rejoined Percy, “we——”
“That is all, be good enough to come with me.”
“Why—what——” began the boys, but the official sternly cut them off.
“No questions now, the chief inspector wants to see you at once. I guess, too, I’ll be sending somebody out to watch the River Swallow.”
“What have we done? What’s the matter?” demanded Harry.
“Never mind. You’ll know soon enough,” was the brusque reply, as the official bade them come with him and “make no trouble.”
CHAPTER XXII.
“NOT JUST YET, STETSON!”
Ralph was interrupted in his reverie by the sound of a swift, cat-like footfall behind him. He was conscious of a sudden thrill that was not exactly fear but rather apprehension, as whoever was pussy-footing through the dark cock-pit drew closer.
No man on an honest errand, as he well knew, would have adopted that stealthy method of approach. For an instant Ralph regretted that he was not armed. But it was only a momentary thought.
He turned his eyes, till out of their corners he could see a dark form drawing close to his chair.