It was clicking in a subdued way, and the detective, after a careless glance at the captain on the bed, put the receiver on his ears, and settled down to listen.

“Hello!� was the first utterance of the machine that Nick caught. “Is that the yacht?�

“Yes,� replied Nick. “Who is that?�

“Is Colonel Pearson aboard?�

“This is Colonel Pearson talking.�

“Is it? That you, chief?�

“What?� cried Nick delightedly. “Is that you, Chick?�

“Yes.�

“Good! Where are you?�

“In your room at the hotel. This wireless telephone of yours came, and I am using it. Good thing you showed me how it works. Say, chief, are you all right?�