A mahogany motorboat with glittering brasswork, approached at high speed from the direction of Shadow Island. As Penny and her father hopefully watched, it swerved toward their dock, and the motor was throttled.
“That’s not Mr. Gandiss,” the publisher said, observing a sandy-haired, freckled youth at the steering wheel.
Nevertheless, suitcase in hand, he waited for the boat.
The craft came in smoothly, and the young man at the wheel leaped out and made fast to a dock post.
“You’re Anthony Parker!” he exclaimed, greeting Penny’s father, and bestowing an apologetic smile upon them both. “I’m Jack—Jack Gandiss.”
“Harvey Gandiss’ son?” Mr. Parker inquired, his annoyance melting.
“A chip off the old block,” the boy grinned. “Hope I haven’t kept you waiting long.”
“Well, we had just about given up,” Mr. Parker admitted truthfully.
“I’m sure sorry, sir. I promised my father I would meet you sharp at four. Fact is, I was out on the river with some friends, and didn’t realize how late it was. We were practicing for the trophy sailboat race.”
Penny’s blue eyes sparkled with interest. An excellent swimmer, she too enjoyed sailing and all water sports. However, she had never competed in a race.