"And left him there?"
"Yes," answered Brandon, with an amused laugh.
"Didn't he want to come back?"
"Of course he did. He's awfully frightened to be left there alone. I told him he would make a good Robinson Crusoe, but the little beggar never heard of him."
"Why did you do such a mean thing, Brandon Bates?" demanded Dean.
"That's my business, Dean Dunham," answered Brandon, in an offended tone.
"Then I'll make it my business," said Dean, sternly. "Get right into your boat and go after Tommy."
"Why, you impudent beggar!" exclaimed Brandon, almost foaming at the mouth with rage, "how dare you say that to me?"
"There's no courage needed," said Dean, dryly. "Are you going to do as I ask you?"