s you a close inspection--in which case
you'd be caught, anyway. Now, have some coffee and sandwiches while
Scotty and I move the boat in closer."

Rick said doubtfully, "Isn't it dangerous to get too close?"

Chahda chimed in. "In 'Worrold Alm-in-ack,' says can see pretty far at
sea. Volcano is maybe five hundred feet. Man on top can maybe see 25.6
ocean miles, says 'Alm-in-ack.'"

"True." Zircon smiled. "But that would be in daylight, with absolutely
clear visibility. You recall that we didn't see the island yesterday
until we were perhaps ten miles away? Water vapor in the air cuts down
visibility here, and at night of course it's even less. If we're blacked
out, I think we can get within two miles with safety. Fortunately, the
moon set shortly after sunset. So our principal problem will be guessing
how far away we can be heard. At low speed, on only one engine, I think
two miles will be safe."

The professor had been figuring things out, Rick realized. He nodded
approval. "All right. We'll be ready by the time you're in position.
I'll leave my Megabuck unit on the boat, and we'll depend on Chahda's.
Then, if we get caught, you and Scotty will still have two sets."

"You won't get caught," Zircon stated emphatically. "Don't even
entertain the idea. I'm sure you can outrun the pirates. If you're
spotted, call us, then get to the shore. We'll come roaring in. Also, I
want you to take the pistol and extra clips. Then, if need be, you can
hold off the mob for the few minutes it will take us to get there."

"All right." Rick didn't really believe they would be caught. Chahda
was an expert at reconnoitering, and he had had plenty of experience
himself. Besides, it was good to be moving into action, no matter what
the danger. They had searched for a long time. Now, their missing
friends were within reach. He had to believe that because the
alternative was to think they were dead.

"Let's eat, Chahda," he said. "Almost time to go."

CHAPTER XIV

The High Fire

The Celebes Sea was dark, with a low swell but no chop. There was just
enough wind to fill the vinta's sail, which suited Rick. At this stage
in the proceedings he was more concerned about silence and safety than
speed. Zircon and Scotty had moved another mile seaward as soon as the
vinta was launched. That was to avoid anyone on the island hearing the
engines in case a sudden onshore wind came up.

Up ahead, Chahda was a dark blur against the sail