Jim Havens brightened up when he saw that the visitors were disposed to take it good-naturedly.
"They're not going to hurt the boat," he said; "but I'm afraid that Dugan will keep right on to the village. He's been wanting for some time to get a gun that he left with his uncle."
"Why didn't he take your boat, then?"
"Well, the 'Dart' ain't much for speed," admitted Jim, with a faint smile.
"Oh, that's it. But say, I've heard that 'Little Bill' is rather reckless with boats."
"Maybe, but Sanders ain't. Whenever you fellers are ready, I'll take you to the shore—that is, if the two don't get back before that time."
"How about that hole in the boat?" asked Tom Clifton.
"It isn't much. We ran into a rock yesterday and dented a couple of boards. It's all fixed now."
"And strong enough to hold a ton or so?" laughed Travers, pointing toward Dave Brandon.
The object of his remarks sat up and yawned.