"Stay where I am," interrupted Rivett. "For a little while: yes. As a matter of fact we're expecting a motor-boat from Weymouth to tow her in."
The two coastguards, finding that the Olivette was in no immediate danger, thereupon rowed off. As they went, the Patrol Leader overheard one remark: "There ain't no flies on that Scout, Bill. Well, jolly good luck to him, says I."
Rusty repented his action. The whole-hearted opinion of the bluejacket showed that he was a good sort.
"Ahoy, there!" shouted the Patrol Leader. "Come back, please."
The men backed their oars and came alongside once more.
"Thought better on it?" asked the one addressed as Bill.
"Yes, and no," replied Rusty; "Look here: you think we're after salvage?"
"Sure," said the man.
"We're not," declared the Patrol Leader. "This boat belongs to the Milford Sea Scouts. She was stolen; we found her, and we mean to hand her back. Scouts do not receive rewards for doing good turns, especially to one another. And I quite see you wanted to stand in."
"That's so, sir," agreed Bill respectfully.