Breaking overhanging tree limbs, and slashing trunks to blaze the trail, the party passed Lookout Point.
When they were perhaps twenty yards beyond the isle, a bullet suddenly whizzed through the trees, only a few feet above their heads. The shot had been fired from the island.
“Duck low!” Mr. Parker ordered. “They’ve taken refuge there!”
As the trio remained motionless, another bullet whined over their heads.
“Dad, it’s only a trick to divert us!” Penny whispered. “One of the Hawkins’ boys probably has stayed on the island, but the others have gone on! See through the trees!”
Jerry and Mr. Parker peered where she pointed and caught the brief flash of lantern light.
“You’re right!” the publisher agreed. “Row on, Jerry! We’re practically out of range of Lookout Point now.”
The boat pushed on. A light mist was rising from the water and the night was very dark. Shielded by the blackness, the trio slipped away without becoming the target for another bullet.
“We’ve got to keep that other boat in sight!” Mr. Parker said grimly. “If we lose it, we may never find our way out of this place!”
“And if we catch up, we may never be allowed to get out!” Jerry observed.