"He will discover his mistake. But let us take a look round the island; perhaps we may find out what has become of the boats;" and I led the way to the nearest point, at which a sentinel had been stationed.
The student on watch there knew nothing of the absence of the boats. There had been no alarm given at the guard tent. We walked around the island without obtaining any information of the lost squadron. We reported the mishap to Vallington, who was both surprised and indignant.
The occupants of the guard tent were all turned out, and those who had been on watch during the night were examined; but none of them knew anything about the boats. They had not heard any noise during the night, or seen anything on the lake. The general then mustered the company, and after stating what had occurred, called for any information; but no one had any to give.
"Where is Bill Poodles?" suddenly demanded Bob Hale, as he glanced around among the students.
"He is not here," replied Tom Rush, after he had scrutinized all the faces.
"And Dick Pearl?"
"Not here."
"Is any of the party that came off that night present?" demanded the general.
"No," answered several, after each fellow had looked his neighbor full in the face.
"That's what's the matter!" exclaimed Bob Hale. "Bill Poodles and the rest of them have run away with the boats; and in my opinion that's what they joined us for."