She insisted that they start at once, and with Madge supporting her, managed to reach the deck. Peering down over the railing she uttered a startled cry.
“What’s the matter?” Madge asked.
“The motor boat! It’s gone! Someone has cut it from its moorings!”
CHAPTER V
A Puzzling Case
Both girls could plainly see where the motor boat had been tied. Only a stub end of rope remained.
“Those kidnappers must have cut it loose last night when they carried Father off!” Enid cried. “Now how are we to get ashore?”
“We might swim,” Madge suggested seriously, measuring with her eye the distance to the wharf. “I think I could make it.”
“Well, I couldn’t, and anyway, I have a better idea.”
Enid brought out a distress flag which had been stored away and hung it where it would be seen by a passing ship. While they awaited rescue, Madge prepared food from the generous assortment of tin goods she found in the kitchen. Enid was induced to eat. The food seemed to revive her and she declared it was the most delicious she had ever tasted. The color gradually flooded back into her cheeks.
Madge asked a great many questions and in turn related her experience with the boatman. She was a trifle disappointed when the matter was passed off lightly.