led over Treasure Isle by the time the shore was reached
with the treasure, which was carried in one of the chests and in
several bundles and numerous pockets. Men and boys were thoroughly
fagged out, and they sat down under the trees to rest before starting
to place their find underground again.

"We might as well wait till morning," said Tom. "I want to have a look
at that gold and that jewelry by daylight."

"We can wait," said his father. "So long as none of our enemies return
to this isle we shall be safe."

They ate what little provisions were left and washed down the scanty
meal with what water was left in the bottles. So far they had been
unable to find any springs on the isle.

"I believe the want of fresh water is what keeps the natives away," was
Captain Barforth's comment, and it is probable that his surmise was
correct.

"I see a light!" cried Songbird, when they were on the point of
retiring. "It is out on the water."

He pointed, and soon all made out the lights of a vessel in the
distance. Then, as the craft came closer, they saw a rocket shoot up in
the air, followed by a Roman candle.

"It's the _Rainbow_!" shouted Dick. "That must be some sort of
signal for us!"

"But where is the _Josephine_?" asked Tom.

Nobody knew, and just then nobody cared. Captain Barforth ran down to
the water's edge and prepared to launch one of the small boats.

"I am going out to my vessel," he said. "Hollbrook, come along. If
everything is all right, we'll send two rockets up or fire the cannon
twice. Then you had better bring the treasure on board without delay."

This was agreed to, and in a moment more the captain and his man were
afloat and rowing toward the opening of the reef with all their might.
Those left behind waited anxiously for what might follow.

"The steam yacht may be in the hands of the enemy," said Songbird, but
he was mistaken, for quarter of an hour later up went two rockets into
the air. Then the searchlight struck the water, and those on shore saw
a rowboat put off and head for land.

"It's Bahama Bill and one of the sailors," cried Tom, a little later.
And then he raised his voice as the rowboat shot into the bay. "This
way, Bill, this way!"

Soon the rowboat struck the sand and Bahama Bill leaped out. His face
was one broad smile.

"So ye got the treasure after all, did ye!" he cried. "I'm powerful
glad on it, yes, sir! Now we'll fool that Merrick crowd good!"

"But what of the