"We are not shifting our berth," declared Mr. Clifton. "For one thing, I object to attempted coercion to the extent of trying to smoke us out. For another, this is the only spot where my yacht can lie afloat at low water, and a berth that for several years I have occupied on every previous occasion." The lawyer nodded approvingly. "In the circumstances there is nothing further for me to say. I will report the result of my interview with you to my client," he said, and wishing Mr. Clifton good evening he went ashore. "This is going to be exciting, lads," remarked the skipper. "I've heard of Mr. Horatio Snodburry, but I haven't been up against him before. We'll sit tight and enjoy the fun. By the bye, I mustn't forget to read my correspondence." Mr. Clifton read the first letter, which was evidently of little importance. Then he ripped open the envelope of the second. "Lads!" he exclaimed. "I've had bad news. My brother has been taken seriously ill. 'Fraid I must catch the first train home. Look here, will you do me a Good Turn? Stand by the yacht till I can get back. It won't be more than a few days. This is most unfortunate." "Of course we will, sir," replied both Sea Scouts. "That's the sort," said Mr. Clifton. "You've taken quite a load off my mind. There's a time-table in that rack over your head, Peter. Do you mind?" Craddock handed Mr. Clifton the time-table. A hasty examination showed that there was a train at 7.15. It was now a quarter to seven. "I can just do it," declared the skipper, hastily packing a small handbag. "Hope you'll have a good time. Sorry to leave you to the tender mercies of Mr. Horatio Snodburry. Here are a couple of pound notes for current expenses. Well, good-bye for the present and good luck. I know Rex will be quite safe with you." The next moment he had gone, leaving the boys with mixed feelings as to what was to be the outcome of the report of the solicitor to his client, Mr. Horatio Snodburry. CHAPTER XXI THE MISSING BIRDS LEFT to themselves and with the big sheepdog as an entertaining companion, Craddock and Carline settled down to their new task. It was a decidedly novel experience to be "on their own" on a yacht in entirely strange surroundings. After breakfast on the following morning, Peter went shopping, accompanied by Rex, who had accepted the Sea Scout as his temporary master without any apparent hesitation. According to his wont the big sheep-dog trotted on ahead, occasionally giving a backward glance to reassure himself that Peter was following. Presently Rex turned the corner leading into the High Street. Twenty seconds later Peter followed, and nearly tripped over the prostrate form of Mr. Horatio Snodburry, who was reclining ungracefully on the pavement with a wretched-looking black dog hugged under one arm, while his right hand grasped a long cane.