There it was, the boat on which they had been carried captive from San Francisco, riding at anchor in the cove.
“I decided not to take a chance on running into any craft inside without warning,” he said. “That’s why I turned on the searchlight. I cannot see a soul aboard the trawler. Can you?”
“Well, I’m going to board her. We’ll soon find out how matters stand.”
The Sub Chaser’s speed slackened at a signal once more, and she slipped alongside the trawler. A rope ladder dangled down the side.
“Fend off, you men, and hold your position,” said the young naval officer resolutely. “I’m going aboard. Do six of you follow me.”
Seizing the ladder, he clambered up swiftly, revolver in hand, peered over the edge, then swung over the rail and dropped to the trawler’s deck.
“All right,” he called down. “Not a soul in sight.”
Eager to be at his heels, the three chums held back until the six sailors commanded to follow had complied. Then they, too, gained the deck of the trawler. Hurried search revealed the craft was deserted. Not even a watchman had been left aboard. The doors to the cabins they had occupied were locked. The boys burst the locks.
With delighted cries they greeted sight of their grips. Quick rummaging disclosed the ring-radio with its appurtenances, which Frank had used to such good effect to discover the proximity of the Sub Chaser when they were captives aboard the trawler. Nothing had been taken away.
“Locked the doors to keep our stuff from the crew,” decided Jack.
On deck, carrying their recovered possessions, they found Ensign Warwick preparing to depart.
“Signs in forecastle and engine room,” he said, “that the crew left in a hurry, and only recently, too. Evidently, they were aboard and were called ashore for some reason. What did you find in the cabin?”
“To tell the truth,” admitted Bob, “we didn’t look around much. Found our things still aboard, and that occupied our attention. But we can go back and look?”
“No, no. That would be a waste of time. I’m afraid the presence of the land party was discovered, and the crew here went ashore to oppose our men. We’ll have to make a landing and go to their aid. Listen.”
Again down the wind, and this time only very faintly came the sounds of distant firing. Apparently, the fight was drawing away from them.