“Got any breakfast? Got anything on board to eat?” again called John.
It was plain now that the Japanese understood what was said, for in broken English he explained that he had some articles of food on the motor-boat.
“I wonder if you’ll sell us some?” inquired Fred eagerly. “We’ll come aboard and see what you have got.”
Quickly taking the stranger’s skiff the boys rowed out to the motor-boat and after they had made it fast, stepped on board.
The Japanese seldom spoke, but in a brief time he handed each of the boys two sandwiches, which they eagerly took and quickly ate.
“How much do we owe you?” asked John.
Again laughing loudly the Japanese shook his head and it was manifest that they would be unable to pay for the slight repast they had received.
“When did you come from Cockburn Island?” inquired Fred.
The question was not answered and John quickly broke in, “When are you going back? That’s a good deal more to the purpose. Do you suppose your boss would be willing to take us over to Mackinac?”
The Japanese laughed, but still did not answer.