overs were here," sighed Dora. "I am sure they would know
exactly what to do."

"They may be having their own troubles on land," said Mrs. Stanhope.
"Sid Merrick is a very bad man and will do all in his power to get that
treasure in his possession."

CHAPTER XXIX

THE HUNT FOR THE TREASURE

With the _Rainbow_ steaming away from Horseshoe Bay, the Rovers
and those with them on shore felt that a crisis had been reached. If it
was true that Carey, Bossermann and Wingate contemplated joining Sid
Merrick there was no telling what the enemy might not accomplish next.

"I have never liked Carey," observed Captain Barforth. "But I did not
imagine he would take matters in his own hands in this fashion. I did
not think he had the backbone."

"It's the thought of the treasure has done it," answered Anderson
Rover. "Many a man's head is turned because of gold."

Those on the shore watched the steam yacht round the eastern point of
the isle. Each heart sank as the vessel disappeared from view.

"Well, we can do nothing at present, but hope for the best," observed
the captain. "We cannot think of chasing them in the rowboats."

"We might tramp across the isle and see where they go to," suggested
Tom. "The _Josephine_ must be over there somewhere."

"Yes, we can do that," answered Mr. Rover. "But it will be a rough
journey."

"I have a better idea," came from Dick. "Father has his spyglass with
him. Why not ascend that hill back of where the treasure cave is and
then get up in the highest tree there? A fellow ought to be able to see
all around from that height."

"Hurrah! just the thing!" exclaimed Sam. He did not relish the long
tramp through the thorn bushes and tangle of vines.

Dick's idea was acceptable to all, and they set off without further
delay. They took the path leading to the shattered cave, and then
mounted the small hill Dick had mentioned. Close to the top stood a
large tree.

"Let me go up!" exclaimed Tom, who could climb like a cat, and he
started without delay.

"Look out that you don't break your neck!" cried his parent.

"I'll be careful," answered the fun-loving youth. "This just suits me!"
he added, enthusiastically.

"Can't I go, too?" asked Sam.

"If you are careful," answered Mr. Rover, and up went the lad, right on
the heels of his brother. It was rather difficult work getting from
limb to limb, for some were wide apart, but the vines, which used the
tree as a trellis, aided t