CHAPTER V

A JOKE THAT WENT WRONG

For several days after the prank with the mouse Bob did not play any
jokes. The teacher ascribed that fact to the lecture she had given
him. Bob's mother, who also noticed that he was much more quiet
than usual, feared he was going to be sick.

"I never knew him to be so subdued," she thought. "I think I must
give him some sulphur and molasses. Perhaps he is getting some
disease."

She mentioned it to the captain.

"Nonsense," said the mariner. "He's hatching up some trick, that's
what he's doing. You want to look out."

"Oh, captain, I don't think so!"

"Well, I do. Now you mark my words. It's down on the chart that
Bob is up to some mischief. He's hauled down his colors for a
while, but that's only to fool the enemy. First thing you know
he'll hoist the Jolly Roger, and then there'll be some queer doings
in these waters."

"Hoist the Jolly Roger?"

"I mean turn pirate, so to speak. You keep your eye on that boy,