By frequently pausing to listen to the crackle of underbrush, Penny was able to follow the flight of her chum. Instead of running toward the river, Louise seemed to be circling back in the direction of the shack.
“She’ll get us both into trouble now,” thought Penny anxiously.
A moment later, Louise, puffing and gasping, came running past. Penny joined her, grasping her hand to help her over the rough places.
“That man’s right behind!” Louise panted. “Are we almost to the river?”
Penny did not discourage her by revealing that she had been running in the wrong direction. The chance of escape now was a slim one. Louise was nearly out of breath, while the man who pursued them, steadily gained.
“The ark!” Penny cried, guiding her chum. “We’ll be safe there!”
Unmindful of thorns which tore at their clothing, the girls raced on. Although Carl Oaks had been left far behind, the other man was not to be outdistanced. He kept so close that Louise and Penny had no opportunity to hide or attempt to throw him off the trail.
“Go on, Penny,” Louise gasped, slackening speed. “I can’t make it.”
“Yes, you can!” Penny fairly pulled her along. “We’re almost there. See!”
The ark loomed up ahead. Encouraged by the sight, Louise gathered her strength and kept doggedly on. They reached the bank of the stream and gave way to despair. The ark was dark and the gangplank which usually connected it with shore, was nowhere in evidence.