“If there were a war,” said MacGregor, “I’d say it was rifle and machine-gun fire.”
This notion was too fantastic to be seriously considered. But what was it?
Second by second the sound increased in volume. “Can this be what they’re looking for?” Johnny asked.
If so, these little men welcomed it in a strange manner. Short, sharp commands were given. Scores of men went into frenzied action.
“Look!” Rusty gripped Johnny’s arm. “They’re lowering my boat into the water.”
“And it’s got gas in the tank. All ready to turn over and start. If only—”
“That’s motors we’re hearin’,” MacGregor broke in. “A thunderin’ lot of ’em! I shouldn’t wonder—”
“MacGregor,” Rusty seized his arm, “our boat is in the water. They are all crowding the rail again. This may be our chance.”
“So it may,” the old man agreed. “Follow me. Not a sound!”
“I’ll get Kopkina,” offered Johnny. “I just saw him on deck.”