The light went out instantly. Then a voice was heard saying it was all right. The light was turned on again, and I saw that the man called Avery had entered. “All right?” asked the other two. “There’s a boat at the dock,” replied Avery in a whisper. “Who’s aboard?” “No one.” “Is it that Carney’s boat?” asked Mr. Norton eagerly. “I don’t think it is. It’s a larger craft.” “Then it must belong to the police!” cried Yates. “We must get right out of here.” “But about dividing those stones?” asked Avery. “We can’t do it now. Remember, we lost one the other night in our hurry; it won’t do to lose more.” “Then come.” The three at once left the room. I heard them cross the road and strike out for the shore above, and then with my heart beating rapidly I stole after them. It was intensely dark, and it was with difficulty that I kept them in sight; but they moved slowly, and that was in my favor. At length we reached the shore above the mill. Here a small boat was lying, and the three prepared to go on board. Suddenly Mr. Norton uttered an exclamation. “Pshaw! I’ve forgotten something!” “What’s that?” asked Yates. “There is something at the mill I want to take along. Will you wait till I run back for it?” “It’s risky,” said Avery. “I’ll run the chance. If I get caught I’ll give the alarm.” And with this the man jumped back to shore, and made for the very place where I was in hiding. I tried to spring to one side; but in doing so I made considerable noise. It was heard, and a moment later the man recognized me. “Reuben!” he ejaculated. “When did you escape?” Without replying I made for the mill. But Mr. Norton was after me, and as I reached the door he collared me. “When did you escape?” he repeated. “I got out just a little while before you did,” I replied; and I did not see the necessity of adding that I was on bail. “And what are you doing here?” he demanded. “That is my business.” “You have been spying on us.” I was silent. “Is that your boat down at the pier?” “Yes.” “You are alone?” “Why do you ask that question?” “Answer me.” “I don’t care to.” He eyed me savagely. “You had better!” he cried. “Do you know you are in my power, boy?” “No, I don’t.” “Well, you are.” “I don’t see it,” I replied stoutly. “You are smart, but not smart enough,” went on Mr. Norton; “and I want to know at once whether you are with us or against us.” “I will never side with a set of thieves!” I burst out warmly, indignant at such a proposition. “Well, then, suit yourself,” he replied. He had hardly spoken before he sprang upon me. I was taken by surprise, and before I could realize it I was on my back and he was on top of me. “Let me up!” I cried. “Not much. If you want to be an enemy to your own uncle and his friends be so; but you have got to take the consequences.” We had a short struggle after this without more words.