"And the tents looked so fine last night," sighed Dave.
"Can't help it, boys," put in Bob, cheerfully; "maybe before we get through the trip we'll think this was only a slight breeze."
After breakfast, tents, pots and dishes were put back upon the motor boat. Dick cast off the lines, then Dave turned the wheel. But, to their great surprise, the engine did not respond. With a puzzled expression, he repeated the operation. Still there was no result.
"What on earth has struck the thing, Bob?" he asked.
For an answer, the captain gave a whistle of astonishment. Then his eyes kindled with excitement and anger.
"Some mean duffer has cut the battery wires," he burst forth, as he showed the astonished Ramblers the broken ends.
[CHAPTER XIV]
MISCHIEF
A chorus of exclamations arose.