"We're going to get that sloop out into the Sound, and sail her up to the city dock at daybreak. I'll show those customs inspectors—"
"They'll say you're the smuggler."
"Well, I'm going to risk it."
"Perhaps they're aboard now—asleep."
"Keep the gun ready, then!"
The boys were making their way towards the sloop along the narrow strip of sand yet uncovered by the flood tide, but as they spoke, they stopped with one accord, for they heard a sound from the trees near by.
"Cougar?"
"No," whispered the Indian, "a man!"
"Stand very still, then, and watch what happens."
They could hear the branches being pushed aside softly, and dull footfalls upon the forest moss.