But most of all, the radiant flare showed the stanch dear old steamer, the Swallow, in a safe harbor and in friendly hands.
CHAPTER XXX
DISASTER
It would be impossible to do full justice to the joy and excitement occasioned by the return of Dave Fearless to the Swallow.
Dave had come up to the steamer unperceived. He knew how to get to the old familiar deck without being discovered.
His first rush was for the dear old father, seated on a stool watching the cheerful scene ashore, but all the time thinking of his missing son.
There was an affectionate greeting between these two who thought so much of one another. Then Captain Broadbeam nearly wrung Dave's hand lame, trying to express his delight at seeing him once more safe and sound aboard the Swallow.
"Mr. Stoodles away--and Bob, too?" exclaimed Dave disappointedly, a little later, as he was told of the happenings with his friends since he had last seen them. "That is unfortunate. I hope they will soon return safely. In fact, it is almost indispensable that Mr. Stoodles see the poor native I brought aboard with me."
"He'll have to see him soon, then," said Doctor Barrell, shaking his head seriously. "The man is in pretty bad condition, Dave. I doubt if I can pull him through."
"He is the possessor of a great secret," said Dave. "Let me tell you about it."