The day was clear, and, save for the high waves, there were no
evidences of the storm. The big sea, however, was not likely to
subside soon, and the Ripper had to stagger along as best she could,
which task she performed to the great satisfaction of the voyagers.
Maurice De Vere seemed much worried by the appearance of the tug,
which hung on the wake of the Ripper, maintaining a speed that kept it
about a mile to the rear. The owner of the Rockhaven kept the glasses
almost continually on the steam vessel, and the anxious look did not
leave his face.
"Can you slow down the engine a bit?" he asked of Jerry, who had
relieved Ned at the motor.
"Yes, if you want me to, Why?"
"I'd like that other boat to come closer to us. I want to see if I can
make out who is aboard. If we slacken our speed they may approach
before they see the trick, and I can form some opinion of what this
strange chase means."
"What do you think it means?" asked Ned.
"I'm afraid it indicates that Blowitz is after us," replied Mr. De
Vere. "I think he has heard of our voyage after the brig and has hired
this tug to try and beat me. But slow down, and let us see what
happens. The waves are not so high now, and you can do it with
safety."
Accordingly Jerry reduced the speed of the motor. The Ripper at once
began to lose headway, and Mr. De Vere, watching the oncoming tug
through the binoculars, announced:
"She'll be closer in a little while, and I can make out the man on
deck, who seems to be directing operations.
Pages:
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
151
152
153
154