“That doesn’t look like Bert,” said Tom, again, “and it isn’t Bert.”
“No; it’s—it’s Truem Wright!” cried Chot, as the canoes drew closer.
“It’s Truem all right,” growled that person.
“Well, what do you think of that?” cried Pod.
“I don’t think much of it,” said Truem. “I’m glad I’ve found you fellows. Been searching for you the whole afternoon. But help me out of this—this water’s pretty cool for an evening bath.”
Chot and Tom, one on either side, steadied Pod’s canoe until Truem could crawl in. Then Chot secured the painter of the upturned skiff and the canoes started for the landing again, Chot towing Truem’s upturned boat.
The boys were curious to know what had happened to Truem, but decided not to question him until he had been supplied with dry clothes.
Hoki turned off the searchlight as the boys climbed the steps leading to the verandah, and came forward to see if he could be of assistance.
Truem shook hands with Fleet, as Chot turned to the Jap.
“You might find a suit of old clothes, some underwear and anything that’s handy, Hoki,” said Chot.