exploring trip of their own, the rest not caring to make any more
explorations at that time.

The boys guided the boat along shore not too near the rocks, both keeping
watch for any nook which might prove of interest or afford an opportunity
for an adventure of any sort.

There was a short, keen-bladed hatchet to cut their way through the
thicket if necessary when they went ashore, and Percival had a rifle with
which to shoot any game they might come across, both being placed on one
of the forward thwarts.

Jack was provided with his pocket flashlight in case they went into dark
places, and Dick had a revolver in his pocket, declaring that this might
be of as much use as the torch in case they came to close quarters with an
enemy, no matter of what sort.

As they were rowing at a lazy rate, keeping up a slow, even stroke, Jack,
who was keeping a lookout on the shore and steering at the same time,
suddenly said, looking toward a mass of rocks which they had just come
abreast:

"There looks to be a sort of cave in there, Dick. At any rate, there is a
hole which seems to run in to some little distance. Suppose we explore it
and see how far we can go."

"I'm in for anything that you are, Jack," replied Dick.

"All right, pull ahead, not too fast, and we'll have a look at the place."