Hardy thought a moment, then he said in a low tone to the two lads:
"Here, boys, you get on to the house. Make a break for the shore and beat it back as fast as you can; and, when you get there, stay locked up till morning light. As soon as Turner turns up, tell him what's doing. Mr. King and I will watch here off by the road with an eye on the machine. No questions. Now go, and be quick!"
Cat was inclined to protest, but Hardy shut him up without ceremony, and the two boys, Cat leading, made a break for the shore and under the shelter of the sand bank started off for Seagulls' Nest.
"Great Gee, Legs! This is the dickens, ain't it?" said Cat, making himself heard against the wind when he felt they were at a safe distance.
"You're right it is!" returned Hatton.
"Who was that other man?" Cat was eager to know.
"That was the sheriff from Roanoke Island. He's after the crook. Father cabled him, and say, Cat, I found the boat that put 'em on the
