Mr. Horatio Snodburry's two minions came out, but, evidently under the impression that the farmer had "squared up" with their employer, made no objection. In fact they assisted in putting the debatable ducks into the crate.
In triumph, Farmer Thorley bore off his own property, Craddock and Carline rowing him down to the farm.
When the Sea Scouts returned to the Thetis, there was a small crowd on the bank.
"Fat's in the fire," exclaimed one of the onlookers. "Old Snodburry's gone to the police station."
CHAPTER XXII
FIRE!
That night it blew half a gale. Secure in a sheltered berth the Sea Scouts could make light of the elements, thankful that they were not "caught out" in the open sea.
At about one o'clock in the morning, Peter was roused by the Thetis grinding against the piles of the stage close to which she was moored. Evidently her quarter-warp had dragged the kedge.
"I'll put a fender out," decided Craddock, doubly careful since he was in charge of a strange yacht.