“That’s all I wanted to know,” responded John. “Wait a minute and we’ll be with you.”
John and Fred quickly hauled the skiff into the water but before they had taken their seats Mr. Button approached and said, “Don’t leave me behind, boys.”
“We aren’t going to stay very long,” suggested Fred.
“That will be all right,” said Mr. Button, “but take me with you.”
The boys delayed a moment while Mr. Button stepped on board and seated himself in the stern of the little skiff. A moment later the little boat was alongside the Gadabout and all three stepped on board, Fred still holding the painter in his hand.
Before them sat George and Grant peering eagerly into their faces and plainly surprised by the unexpected action of their companions.
“We must leave right away,” said Mr. Button.
“What for?” demanded Fred.
“I haven’t time to explain to you,” said Mr. Button, “but the only thing for us to do is to get away from this island, and the Gadabout is the best means for us to use.”
“But the boat doesn’t belong to us,” protested John.