"What can we do for you?"
"If you will take us on board, or give us a tow until we can land
somewhere we shall be very grateful to you."
"What's the trouble?"
"That's just what we do not know," said John.
"Have you got plenty of gasoline?"
"Yes, sir. It's something wrong with the machinery this time."
Fred now was sitting erect and gazing interestedly at the people
on the deck of the Caledonia. His face was still ghastly in its
color but the opportunity to secure help apparently had aroused
him from the semi-stupor into which he had fallen.
"I think the best thing will be to take you on board and tow the
boat. We're going to put in for the night right here and if there
isn't anybody there who can fix up your machinery then you'll
have to stay until to-morrow morning when we can take you on to
Sacket's Harbor. I think it will be better for all you boys to
come aboard," he added. "In a sea like this there's no knowing
what may happen to a boat in tow."
"You fellows go on board," said Fred. "I'll stay here and look
after the boat."
"You'll do nothing of the kind," retorted John promptly. "If you
stay I shall stay with you."
It finally was agreed that the four boys should be taken on board
the Caledonia and that one of the crew of the yacht should take
his place on board the Black Growler and do his best to see that
she was guided aright while she was being towed by the larger
boat.
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