"What do your suppose that was?" inquired Hiram excitedly.

"It was kind of startling," said Dave.

"Listen."

With the power shut off, the hydroplane drifted, Dave checking its
slack running. They were now in a dense fog; with night fast coming
on. For the moment everything was still. Then there rang through
the misty space one word:

"Help!"

"It was in that direction," said Hiram quickly, pointing.

"I think so, too," nodded Dave, "and not far away."

"What could have happened? Those shots?"

"Probably fired to call assistance."

"If you could speed up the hydroplane a little--"

"I would have to get the starter in use, and we might run into
something. Hello! Hello! Hello!" Dave shouted loudly. There was
a speedy reply.

"Here! Hello! this wa-aa-ay!"