It was noticeable that their appetites were
increasing. All were feeling in prime condition.
Just before supper was served the Fortuna was tied up alongside the
wharf of the shrimping factory where the fishing vessels landed their
cargoes. The electric lights were turned on, presenting a cheerful scene
as one viewed the craft from shore. Night was falling rapidly and the
boys were glad they had reached port.
Rowdy interrupted the peaceful scene by growling and moving about
uneasily. He ran whining from one door to the other.
Madero, who was sitting at the end of the table, glanced up from his
plate to peer out of a window. With a gasp he fell back.
"There's Lopez!" he cried, pointing through the window.
CHAPTER XXII
A DESPERATE ATTEMPT
Doright was standing near the door. Rowdy's excitement now increased to
a high pitch. He dashed madly to and fro in the cabin.
"I saw the fellow's face for a minute," cried Jack. "Open the door,
Doright, and let Rowdy out. He wants to meet his friend."
"Go on, dog!" whispered Doright, obeying Jack's order.
Quick footsteps sounded on the wharf. A man was running away. Rowdy lost
no time in scrambling on deck and from there to the wharf. In a moment
came a shriek, followed by a shot. The boys shivered in apprehension.
Their pet was alone in the dark and a shot had been fired. It seemed as
if they must go to his assistance.
Not many minutes passed before the boys felt the Fortuna rock as a body
landed on the deck.
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