"This isn't the
time nor place for us to quarrel. We've too much at stake. The raft
has gone, and we are after it. That's all Grim and I know. Whatever
information you can give concerning its disappearance will be
gratefully received."
[Illustration: "'The raft has gone, and we are after it.'"]
The interchange of high words that followed had almost led to blows,
when Mr. Gilder suddenly became silent, and stepped quickly to the
pilot-house door. He had just caught sight of Sabella holding Don
Blossom in her arms, and staring through the open doorway with an
expression of frightened bewilderment. She had expected to find her
uncle and Billy Brackett and Winn, and had hastened to announce the
joyful news of Don Blossom's safety.
Now as Mr. Gilder led her aft and down into the living-room, he strove
to banish that frightened look by gentle words and reassuring promises.
"But where is my Uncle Aleck? And where are Mr. Brackett and Winn? I
can't find them anywhere. Solon said they were in the pilot-house."
"They are on the raft, and we are going to find them," was the answer.
"Oh, I'm so glad they've got the raft again! And I'm glad you gave it
back to them, too. Now, Winn can't say you are a bad man any longer.
But you've only borrowed the _Whatnot_ for a little while, haven't you?"
"Yes, only for a little while.
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