How unfortunate, indeed, were they that the knowledge of future events
was withheld. They might not have enjoyed the supper so much had they
been aware of all that was to transpire.

Discussing the events of the past few hours, speculating upon the
possible location of their chums, making plans for the future, the boys
sat late about the table. Rowdy fell asleep over his bone. At last Tom
jumped up, declaring he would wash the dishes if the others would sweep
and put the cabin to rights.

Busily the boys went at their tasks and soon the Fortuna was once more
"Ship shape and Bristol Fashion," as Jack loved to say.

"What do you suppose Wyckoff meant when he said our pals are out of the
way and we are next?" questioned Frank, a trifle uneasily, as his mind
traveled back to the last time he had seen Charley and his launch the
"Spray." "Do you suppose he meant--"

"Nothing of the sort," interrupted Jack. "Unless it was an accident, I
can't believe that those villains would make away with the boy as you
mean. I think he is alive and well, but being detained by Wyckoff and
his gang until they have a chance to make another effort for this
mythical treasure. Then the lads will be free."

"Oh, I hope so," fervently declared Frank. "If anything should happen to
Charley, I could never forgive myself for bringing him down here with
me. His parents would be prostrated with grief."

"I believe you'll find it to be as I say," Jack continued.

"Sure thing," cried Tom. "Those fellows may be pretty rough amongst
their own neighbors, and do things that are mighty bad, but when they
get amongst outsiders, they know that an inquiry would be made to trace
the chaps who disappear. All three boys are safe, I really believe. At
least, I'll require positive proof to the contrary."

Presently the boys prepared to retire. They felt quite satisfied to know
that their home was once more afloat. Jack declared he rested better
when the vessel was rocked by the waves.

None of the lads slept soundly. Rowdy seemed to have lost his composure
of a few hours earlier and paced up and down the cabin.

Occasionally one of the boys would start up from his bunk and wander
about to peer from the windows or pilot house. The moon light flooded
the town and river, turning the rigging of the ships into silver and
glittering in dazzling bits of light from the rippling waters. Deep
black shadows were cast by every object.

Thus up and down the boys were pa