“I tell you, this schooner is in some way bound to become involved in our project. Some strange presentiment has told me that!”

“It is quite a coincidence,” muttered Frank. “Yet I cannot see how his trip to the channel can in any way affect us.”

“We shall see. I would like to go aboard the schooner with you, Frank.”

“Certainly.”

Frank stepped into the pilot-house and gave Barney orders to lie by and wait for their return. Then he put on a light overcoat, as did Wade, and they were ready for the visit.

Very soon a dark object came bounding over the waves toward them. It was the yacht’s boat.

Presently it reached the gangway of the Diver.

“Ahoy!” came the hail; “this is the Meta’s boat waiting for Captain Reade.”

“All right,” cried Frank, as he slid down into the boat. He was followed by Wade.

A moment later four strong oarsmen were rowing them rapidly over to the yacht.