region of shallows and more or less hidden by rows of long slim islands.
No boat of greater draught than a canoe could make its way through the
intervening passages. In other words, these islands were virtually
isolated from all river traffic. The other possible place of concealment
was an island about five acres in extent, completely hemmed in by a group
of other islands, which were so overrun with rampant vegetation,
including bushes and trees, as to conceal the inner isle from any but the
most scrutinizing vision.

"That is the place we want to explore first," announced Mr. Perry as
reference was made to this retreat in the check-up.

"I agree with you," Bud declared. "If the prisoner left any traces behind
him at all, we're likely to find them on that island in there."

"Is there any way we can get in?" Hal inquired. "Too bad we haven't a
small rowboat or canoe with us."

"We'll investigate and see what we can find in the way of a water passage
into the interior," Mr. Perry announced.

"That means a little more circumnavigating," Bud inferred.

"Right you are," said Cub. "Me to the pilot house again."

Accordingly he resumed his position at the wheel and the boat was put in
motion again. His father followed him and cautioned him against too much
speed in such places.

Slowly the Catwhisker crept around the island-surrounded island until