No longer in doubt, Phil ordered O’Neil to tow the launch back to the harbor of La Boca.
They had been on the return but a short time, when O’Neil’s voice disturbed the lads deep in their own thoughts.
“There is a launch heading this way, sir,” he reported; “it looks like one of our steamers.”
Phil was on his feet instantly peering through the darkness ahead.
“Ahoy, there,” from the approaching launch; “what launch is that?”
“The ‘Vidette,’ sir,” Phil answered, greatly relieved. He recognized Captain Taylor’s voice and ordered O’Neil to stop and “lay to.”
“Are you all right?” the captain hailed anxiously.
Phil hesitated an instant, then he thought explanations could be made when he came on board.
“Yes, sir,” he answered.
The steamer sheered up alongside the “Vidette” and the captain stepped on board.