“We’re going to the police,” said Hal explosively. “That’s what we’re going to do. And we mean to get those things back.”
Bill nodded reflectively. “Well, that’s one way, and I ain’t saying it’s a bad way. Only thing is, mates, by the time them police officers gets started the fellow that’s got your gear may have hid it or sold it. Things like compasses an’ such sell like hot cakes. Well, I surely hope you get ’em back, mates. An’ here we be at our destination an’ all flags flyin’. I cal’ate you’ll be goin’ back to the island tonight, mates.”
“I think so,” replied Jack. “In fact, I know we shall.”
“Ain’t found that treasure yet, I cal’ate?”
“Not yet. Just row up to the spiling, please. That’s it. Much obliged. And here’s the rest of the money we owe you.”
“Much obliged to you, mates. Any time you want a service done just you call on Honest Bill Glass. Always glad to oblige, I be. Wish you luck, mates!”
From the Corsair, made fast to one of the spiles in Herrick’s Cove, the three boys watched Bill Glass row off around the point. Jack grinned. “He’s a jolly old villain, isn’t he?” he asked.
“Yes,” replied Bee. “And I wonder if he really did swipe those things. He looked so confounded innocent all the time!”
“Swipe them! Of course he swiped them!” exploded Hal. “I’ll bet you anything we’ve only got to go up to his cabin to find them. And I mean to do it, too! And if you fellows won’t come along I’ll go alone!”