The weight fell harmlessly into the water.
"It was a Jap threw that; I saw him sneaking along the deck," cried one of the men.
"Hurrah! We've got the right craft, then!" cried Herc.
"What is the matter, gentlemen?" demanded the man on the bridge. He appeared much agitated.
"The matter is that you will consider yourself under arrest," cried Ned. "Remain where you are and order your crew forward."
"You take things with a high hand. Who do you think we are?"
"I don't know anything about you; but I know that this craft is the Halcyon with a faked stern, a false mizzen-mast and a repainted funnel," retorted Ned angrily. "I shall hold you responsible for the behavior of your crew."
The bearded man appeared to be about to collapse. In a feeble voice they heard him order his crew forward.
"I call you to witness that this is a chartered yacht," he cried, "and that I'm obeying your orders. I don't want to get into trouble with Uncle Sam."
"I guess you're in pretty bad," muttered Herc grimly.