This he did up in a piece of paper, shoving it in a safe pocket. He washed out the jar thoroughly. Then he wandered about studying the branches of various trees under which he passed. Several of these Dave ascended like a boy bird's-nesting.
He was quite a long time in one tree-top. When he descended to the ground he had the cover firmly attached to the jar, which he carried as if extremely careful of its contents.
"If I am guessing things out right," said Dave, with a kind of satisfied chuckle, "I think we shall give our enemies quite a novel surprise."
Dave swam back to the steamer. Arrived on deck he placed the jar just where he had originally found it. Then he went to bed.
He overslept himself next morning. The ship was a scene of bustle and activity. When he came up on deck, every member of the crew proper was busy, even Bob Vilett.
So Dave found no opportunity to make a confidant of his special chum, even had that been his desire or intention.
At nine o'clock Captain Broadbeam announced that all was ready for their departure, and ordered steam up.
Within thirty minutes of getting under way the boatswain hurried from the bow to where the captain was standing amidships.
"Coming again, sir," he announced, touching the peak of his cap respectfully.
"Who's coming?" demanded Broadbeam.