“You are correct,” said Mr. Button. “There’s a boat coming this way. I have been sure of it for two or three minutes, but I have not been able to make out its outlines, as yet. Can either of you boys see it?”
Neither Fred nor John was able to discern the outlines of the boat, which steadily sounded nearer. A few minutes only had passed before Fred gleefully announced his discovery of the approaching motor-boat.
“I think it must be the Gadabout,” he said eagerly. “Probably George and Grant are on board and they are looking for us. Shall I hail them?”
“No, no,” said Mr. Button quickly. “At least not yet. We had better wait here until we are sure who is on board.”
Obediently the boys followed the instructions and waited until the motor-boat had come within twenty feet of the shore. There the power was shut off and the course slightly reversed, so that the Gadabout, for it was indeed the missing boat, came slowly about, broadside to the island.
Although the boat was so near, it was impossible for John or Fred to see who was steering. They were aware that at least three were on board for they saw plainly the forms of the men as they let go the anchor and the boat became stationary.
“I guess it’s George and Grant—” began Fred, at the same time preparing to advance near the water. He was sharply recalled, however, by Mr. Button, who once more urged the boys to remain behind the bushes where they had taken their stand until they had seen who made up the party on the Gadabout.
Only a brief time elapsed before a man stepped on board a skiff and pushed out from the motor-boat to the shore. Without using his oars the boat soon ground on the beach and when the occupant stepped forth both of the watching boys were aware that it was the mate of the Gadabout.
He pulled his skiff up on the shore, and then, scarcely glancing behind him, at once passed swiftly into the field and soon disappeared from sight.
“He’s going up to the house,” said Fred in his excitement.