"Can't go without a teacher along to look after us, just as if we were infants out with their nurse," grumbled Walter.
"I will ask Mr. Bernard to give us liberty for once, and trust us to take care of ourselves," laughed Joe, determined to restore Walter to good-nature.
"He won't do it."
"I'll ask, anyhow. I believe he will."
"There's the supper-bell!" shouted Dave, dashing away toward camp.
The rest of the crowd quickened their steps to a run, and were soon gathered around the table, having returned from their long walk with keen appetites.
Joe gave Mr. Bernard the story told by Captain Melrose and repeated to them by John Kramer; and added that the two teachers had gone on to the lighthouse, hoping to hear something that would give them a clue to the whereabouts of the fishing-smack.
CHAPTER IX.
A DAY OF FREEDOM.
The next morning, directly after breakfast, Joe was reminded of his promise, and approaching Mr. Bernard, he said, "I want to ask a favour, sir."