Paul Gale kept to the cabin, as the wind had freshened since they started and there was quite a sea on, that sent the spume and spray of the salty waves across the deck.
They were longer reaching the island than they counted on, and just before they sighted it the storm broke in all its fury. But they were prepared for it, and the Norma plunged gallantly ahead through the smashing big seas of green water that at times buried her nose out of sight. Suddenly there was a slight crash forward and a shiver seemed to go through the gasolene craft.
"What's that?" cried Mr. Racer in alarm.
"We hit something," said Mr. Lacey. "Danforth, just see what it is, will you?" he asked of the mate, who was in the snug cabin with the owner and his guests.
But Mr. Racer did not wait. He rushed up on deck. The Norma had been brought to quarter speed and the silk merchant could see, floating off to one side, a small wrecked skiff. It seemed familiar to him.
"That's what we hit, sir," explained one of crew. "Cut it right in two."
"It's my boys' boat!" cried Mr. Racer. "The one they carry on the Gull. I know the shape of it, and I can see the red circle on the stern. Were they in it when we cut it down?"
"No, sir. I don't think so, sir," answered sailor as he noted the anguish of Mr. Racer. "I saw it immediately after we struck, and I'm almost sure no one was in it. I'd have seen them, sir, if there was, sir."
"Oh, but perhaps they were in it!" cried Mr. Racer. "Their sailboat may have foundered and they might have had to take to the small boat. Oh, Mr. Lacey. We must pick up my boys!" he added, as the owner came on deck.
"Of course. Captain Nelson, put back and circle around that boat.
Light the searchlight and play it on the wreck."