The broad-shouldered boy quickly hove in sight. He was carrying the leather haversack; and his face seemed puckered up in a frown.
"Specs, nothing!" he snapped. "Just you ram your paw inside, Toby Jucklin, and let's see how much better you c'n succeed."
Of course, being thus challenged, Toby felt in honor bound to make the trial.
Everyone watched with rapidly growing interest; and when Max stole another look at Steve he was more puzzled than before.
Was Steve trying to play a trick on his chums; or could it be possible that the strong fascination which he admitted pearls always had for him was tempting him to deceive his comrades?
Max hated to even allow such a suspicion to gain lodgment in his mind; but after what he had seen, how could he help it?
He determined to say nothing to anyone, not even his cousin Owen, but just watch developments.
Of course Toby's confidence quickly gave way to something akin to dismay. He seemed to rattle the contents of the bag around again and again, but apparently without success.
"Well," scoffed Bandy-legs, realizing that it was his turn to crow, "why don't you produce the goods, Toby? You said I needed specs, didn't you? The first pair we find floating down the Big Sunflower goes on your nose. Why don't you show up? Let's see that little cardboard box."
Toby withdrew his hand.