"When they got in the jungle you had no chance," said Norris, when we told of our failure. "I'll have a try in the morning," he added.
Rufe had supper on the table. While we ate, we talked over what was to be done.
"It ver' plain what Duran he want to do," said Captain Marat. "He want to hide thee boys again, an' w'en we look for them, then he sail away."
"Well it's up to us," said Norris, "to see that he doesn't sail away till we find them. Now, and I'll bet he don't!"
We divided the night into two watches; nine to twelve, and twelve to three. Norris, Robert, and I were to take the first watch, Captain Marat and Carlos that from twelve to three. We were to go in the small boat to the islet, and move along the beach to some place near the Orion, and observe any activity that might be going on there.
During that first watch all was quiet on the Orion. There was little movement on her deck, which was plainly visible in the bright moonlight. There were one or two wounded, as we could see by the conduct of those waiting on them.
It was during Captain Marat's watch that Duran returned aboard in the other boat. It was plain, Captain Marat said, that Wayne and Ray were not in the boat with him.
Day had just dawned when Norris and Robert and I climbed down into the boat to go ashore in search of the boys.
"Now, Captain Marat," said Norris, as we cast loose, "the first signs that skunk shows of clearing out, give him that shot alongside. I'll hear it an'll be back in a jiffy. And we'll soon have him out of his notion."
"All righ'," said Captain Marat. "I do like you wish."