The screams of Rufus, however, had been heard in the house and now Mr. Button and the Japanese were seen running swiftly toward the barn. At the same time the excitement of the dogs increased and there were loud barkings and yelpings as they ran and leaped about the place.
The little Japanese, however, as soon as he entered the barn threw back his head and emitted another of his wild, hoarse laughs.
“What’s the joke?” demanded Mr. Halsey angrily as he turned upon his servant.
Again the Japanese laughed, and ignoring the question called to the dogs, every one of which instantly obeyed his call. Both Fred and John were convinced that if the Japanese should order the dogs to attack any one his word instantly would be obeyed.
Meanwhile the manner of Rufus again quickly changed. Assured that he was safe from an attack, the look of cunning again appeared in his little red eyes and when the three men departed from the barn there was a swagger in his walk as he led the way to the house.
As soon as the boys were convinced that the men had withdrawn, they quickly descended the ladder and ran out into the yard.
“Look yonder,” said John grasping his friend by the arm and pointing toward the shore. “There are George and Grant and they are both coming here.”
“The more the merrier,” laughed Fred, relieved by the sight of his friends. “There will be less danger now than there was before. That man Halsey is desperate. What have you done with the box?”
“I have got it here under my sweater,” answered John in a low voice. “Does it show?”
“Not much. I don’t believe I should notice it unless I was looking for it.”