"Say, Ray," said Norris. "What did you want to run off and hide yourself that way for?"
"Want to," sniffed Ray. "Oh, just to see how good a hunter you were—wonderful how easy you found us!"
"Well, let's try it again," said Norris, "and I'll bet you my new gun—"
"Thanks," said Ray. "Turn about's fair play, I'm going to stay in base and keep Rufe company."
And here again Wayne takes up the tale.
CHAPTER XVIII
OUR BOAT IS SCUTTLED
When Ray and I set our feet on the deck of the Pearl again, I felt a thrill go all through me. I felt like hugging the mainmast. Captain Marat and Carlos were there, and Rufe. Rufe fairly blubbered with happiness.
"Oh, Lordy!" he said, "somebody clap foh me, I jes' got to dance."