a gruff appeal for reasonableness.

Though he tried to fight like a savage, Jack Benson soon found himself
being yanked to his feet, while a stalwart laborer held him by either
arm.

"You see, you can do nothing," advised the Italian who had thrown the
boy. "You not want to get hurt? We no want hurt you, but if you be
one big fool, then--!"

"What's the meaning of this rough game?" Jack demanded, hoarsely.

"You be verra good, no make noise, come with us and wait little while,
then you go loose bimeby. Make fight, and well--then we no can help!"

That statement, coupled with the sinister, menacing tone, was
sufficiently clear. It didn't take the submarine boy more than a few
seconds to realize that he was helpless, and that the most sensible
thing to do would be to go along, provided no worse violence than had
already been used were attempted.

"Where do you want me to go?" he asked.

"Oh, we show you," replied the late guide, in a tone half implying that
he stood ready to do his young captive a great favor.

There appeared to be no help for it. Grim faced, and with teeth tightly
clenched, Captain Jack allowed himself to be led on through the woods,
both his arms being still tightly held by his conductors. Had they
intended any more dastardly violence, he reasoned, they could easily have