"Look here!" he cried in anger, addressing Frank and Andy. "What right have you got to interfere with me? This is none of your business."
"It's the business of every gentleman when a lady is in distress to try to help her," replied Frank quickly.
"Well, you mind your own affairs and let mine alone!" snarled the man. "I can attend to my own business. I'll settle matters with this young lady and perhaps in a manner she doesn't like. As for you young fellows, take my advice and don't interfere with me. I won't stand it! I tell you I won't stand it!"
He smote the palm of one hand with the fist of the other and fairly glared at the boys. Frank returned his gaze fearlessly.
"Now you mind that!" went on the man. "I don't want you interfering in my affairs, or you'll wish you hadn't. As for you, Miss Morton—I'll see you or your mother again," and with that the unpleasant personage turned on his heel and strode out of the cabin door, casting a look full of meanness at our heroes.
The girl and the two boys stood facing each other in the little cabin.
"It was very kind of you," she murmured, looking at Frank, and blushing slightly.
"Are you sure there is nothing we can do to help you?" eagerly asked the elder Racer lad. The girl was fast recovering her composure, and the traces of tears were vanishing.
"No, thank you," she said gently. "It's just some trouble about money matters that I hope will soon be straightened out. I did not know he was aboard or I would not have come by this boat."
"Well, if there is anything we can do, please let us know," went on the elder lad. "My name is Frank Racer, and this is my brother Andy."