d the voice, and that it did not belong to either of the
robbers, nor to any member of the Crusoe band. Even if it was an enemy
in the hold, he had nothing to fear from him, for the door was locked;
and, while on deck, he had noticed that all the hatches were fastened
down.

"Who's there, I say?" repeated the voice.

"Harding," replied Johnny. "Have you any thing to say to him?"

"Talk of your good genius, and you are sure to receive a visit from him.
Yes, we've a good deal to say to you. Come in and release us. We're
prisoners."

Johnny stood for an instant looking at the door in blank amazement, and
then began to bustle about the cabin. He did not stop to ask any
questions, for he recognized Jackson's voice now. After a few desperate
but unsuccessful attempts to open the door, he seized a handspike, with
which he speedily demolished the lock; then, picking up his club again,
he cautiously opened the door, and saw the three prisoners lying in a
row on the floor of the hold. "What in the name of wonder are you doing
there?" asked Johnny.

"Now, do you suppose we would stay here if we could help ourselves?"
demanded Jackson. "I say, Harding, we've good news for you. Sam Barton's
got your money."

"No!" exclaimed Johnny, bringing his club against the door with a force
that threatened to drive it from its hinges. "How do you know?"

"We heard it from the burglars, who are out now somewhere hunting up the
Crusoe men. I'd like to know how much longer you are going to stand
there looking at us."

Johnny was so astonished and delighted by the intelligence he had just
received, that he forgot all about the prisoners, until these words of
Jackson recalled him to his senses. While he was releasing them, the
lieutenant repeated what the robber had told him, which made the clerk
so excited that he could scarcely stand still. He was in a great hurry
to return to the Storm King now, and so were the students; and in two
minutes after Johnny had freed them from their bonds, hasty preparations
were being made to get the schooner under-way.

"There is no possible chance for any backset this time," said the
lieutenant. "The Sweepstakes is our prize. The pirates can't escape now,
for there is no cove here with secret passage ways for them to take
refuge in. What's the matter, Phillips?"

"Sink my tarry wig!" exclaimed the young sailor. "Just see there, sir!"

Jackson looked toward the opposite side of the creek, and who should