ded, "for a shrimping schooner of
those fellows. They have left Pascagoula already this morning and are
headed for Biloxi Bay. They are determined that you shall not, under any
circumstances, beat them to the treasure."

"So there is a treasure?" asked Jack. "Do you think there is really a
treasure hidden there, or is it all talk?"

"I don't know," replied Carlos. "They believe the story."

A berth was now turned over to Madero and he was urged to lie down and
take what rest he could. As he curled up in the berth, Rowdy came in,
jumped up on the berth and curled up beside the newcomer. Not a sign of
antagonism did the bulldog exhibit.

"Well, you're all right now," declared Harry. "That bulldog's our acid
test. When he thinks a fellow is all right, that settles it."

"That is very comforting," declared Carlos. "I hope Rowdy and I become
great friends. He's a nice dog."

"How's the foot?" inquired Harry. "I forgot to ask before."

"Great," declared Madero. "You boys are fine doctors."

Just at dusk the Fortuna drew into Biloxi bay. The boys had decided that
a few fish would be required for supper and had run out some distance
from shore where they threw over their lines with good success. Several
Spanish Mackerel graced the bag as a result of their efforts. They were
justly proud of their catch.

Charley and Frank were elected cooks for the evening. With Doright's
assistance they soon had a fine supper prepared. Fresh mackerel with a
package of Saratoga chips was the piece de resistance, but the table did
not lack for comforts. It was noticeable that their appetites were
increasing. All were feeling in prime condition.

Just before supper was served the Fortuna was tied up alongside the
wharf of the shrimping factory where the fishing vessels landed their
cargoes. The electric lights were turned on, presenting a cheerful scene
as one viewed the craft from shore. Night was falling rapidly and the
boys were glad they had reached port.

Rowdy interrupted the peaceful scene by growling and moving about
uneasily. He ran whining from one door to the other.

Madero, who was sitting at the end of the table, glanced up from his
plate to peer out of a window. With a gasp he fell back.

"There's Lopez!" he cried, pointing through the window.

CHAPTER XXII

A DESPERATE ATTEMPT

Doright was standing near the door. Rowdy's excitement now increased to
a high pitch. He dashed madly to and fro in the cabin.