An examination was made, but in the fog and darkness nothing could be
discovered.

"It was mighty queer," was Grandon's comment. "Somebody must have done
it."

"Where are Shamhaven and Peterson?"

"In the forecastle, I suppose. Do you think----"

"I don't know what to think. See if they are there."

At once Tom Grandon ran off, and made a tour not only of the forecastle
but also of the forward deck. He called the men's names several times,
and others quickly joined in the hunt.

"They are gone!" he ejaculated, running back to where Captain Ponsberry
stood.

"Gone? Then it must have been them jumping overboard that we heard!"

"Like as not--and they are a good bit away from the schooner by this
time."

"Bring a lantern and we'll take a look around."

A lantern was brought, and a few minutes later a small boat was lowered,
manned by Luke and three other sailors. Captain Ponsberry went with
them, and the searchers remained out the best part of an hour.

"They've given us the slip clean and clear," declared the master of the
_Columbia_, on returning. "It was a risky thing to undertake in such
weather as this."

"Yes, and for all we know they may be at the bottom of the harbor,"
answered Tom Grandon.

"Which place might be jest what they deserve," grumbled Luke Striker, as
he helped to stow away the small boat once more.

CHAPTER XIX

THE DISAPPEARANCE OF THE ENEMY

As soon as Peterson and Shamhaven threw the blocks of wood overboard
they darted for the companionway of the schooner and crept noiselessly
down to the cabin.

The apartment was deserted, and the swinging lamp over the center table
was turned low. On the table rested several charts which Captain
Ponsberry had been consulting before joining Tom Grandon on deck.

It was Larry's watch below and he was improving the time by taking a
much-needed nap. He lay on the berth in his stateroom, with the door
wide open to admit the fresh air.

"Make no noise!" whispered Shamhaven. "If we are discovered the jig is
up with us."

"Russell is here, yes?" came from Peterson.

"Sh-sh! Yes--over in yonder stateroom."

They closed the door leading to the companionway and then tiptoed their
way to where Larry lay.

"More than likely he keeps his money belt under his pillow when he
sleeps," said Shamhaven. "Wait till I find out."

He shoved his hand under the headrest with caution and presently his
fingers came into contact with a strip of leat