The sound of the boat was more distinct now, and it appeared to be
approaching the island. Was his dream really coming true? Rising, he
groped his way to the captain's side, and touched his arm. Light
though it was, the captain suddenly woke, and asked who was there. In
a few whispered words Rod told him what he had heard. At this, the
captain sat up, and listened.
"Sure enough," he remarked. "Somebody's astir at a queer hour. Guess
we might as well look into this. Come on, let's go and find out. But
we must be very careful, and not talk out loud."
Together they made their way cautiously along the shore, keeping as
close as possible to the edge of the forest. They had not gone far,
however, before the motor-boat drew into the island on their right.
Then the engine slowed down and at last stopped, showing that those on
board were about to land.
"Quick, let's get behind this rock," Captain Josh whispered. "They
must not know that anybody is here."
Thus safely concealed, the two watchers waited and listened to find out
what would take place. They soon heard the boat grate upon the gravel,
then a lantern flashed, and two men were seen walking up the beach.
"We might as well stay here," one of them said.
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