One of the men gave a low laugh.
"Do that again, and we'll blow your old skiff out of the water," howled his companion, angrily.
"I don't think you will," retorted Dave, sturdily.
"It wouldn't be safe for you to try it, boy. We mean business, and somebody is going to get hurt if you don't keep out of the way."
"I'll chase you till daylight, if I don't do anything more," said Dave. "I have the faster boat, and you can't get away from me."
The pursuit continued for a few minutes in silence, until the young hunter realized that his words were not going to have any effect.
"I'll give you one more chance," he called, finally. "Will you take it?"
No response came from the "Rambler." Dave's face wore a look of sternness and determination. Again the gun rose to his shoulder. He had no intention of hitting the men, but they needed a lesson. Dave took careful aim and fired. The charge struck the water not far from the side of the "Rambler," causing a shower of spray to dance in the moonlight.
"Hold on, hold on!" shouted one of the men. "Don't fire again. We'll go ashore."
From the sound of his voice, the speaker was evidently not a little frightened.