"I do know it, Harry. You've been through too many perils to be suspected
of cowardice. Well, then, I'll run back."

Tom Reade had really intended to leave the flash lamp with his chum, but
he forgot to do so, and, as he jogged steadily along over the wall he threw
the light ahead of him. As he got nearer shore Tom increased his jog to a
brisk run.

Once, on the way, he passed the prowling negro without knowing it. That
huge fellow, seeing the ray of light come steadily near him, hesitated for
a few moments, then took to the water, swimming well out. After Reade had
passed, the fellow swam in toward the wall.

Up on the wall climbed the negro. For a few minutes he crouched there,
shaking the water from his garments. Then, cautiously, he began to crawl
forward.

"Boss Reade, he done gone in," muttered the prowler. "Boss Hazelton, Ah
reckon he's mah poultry!"

Harry, keeping his lone vigil away out on the narrow retaining wall, was
growing sleepy. He had nearly forgotten his scare. Indeed, he was
inclined to look upon it as a trick of his own brain.




CHAPTER II

THE CALL OF ONE IN TROUBLE