018 The Twisted Claw by Franklin W. Dixon

Author:Franklin W. Dixon [Dixon, Franklin W.]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER XII

Swim to Freedom

Nor without some misgivings on Frank’s part, the Hardys took Ellis into their confidence, telling him briefly about their adventure aboard the Black Parrot.

The radioman was amazed. “This does mean trouble. We’re bound to be visited by some of the Black Parrot’s crew.”

“Maybe we can hide somewhere during the rendezvous,” Joe suggested.

“That won’t work,” Ellis warned. “Any time we put into a port, or get close to a landfall, the captain double-checks to make sure all crew members are accounted for. You’d be missed immediately.”

Frank began to pace the floor. “We’ve got to think of something. There must be a way out of this.”

“You’d better go back to your quarters,” the operator urged. “Meanwhile, I’ll get this message off to the Black Parrot. Meet me in an hour on the main deck, amidships on the portside. I should have more information by then.”

The boys left and made their way forward.

“What do you make of Ellis?” Frank asked.

“First impressions can be misleading,” admitted Joe, “but I like the fellow and feel we can trust him. Anyhow, we haven’t much choice.”

“I agree. But if he is on our side, why doesn’t he tell us more about himself?”

“He is frightened of something. I think he’s being forced to sail aboard this ship.”

Time passed slowly for the Hardys. Finally an hour went by, and they headed amidships for their meeting with the radioman. He was already waiting when they arrived.

“The situation is worse than I thought,” Ellis announced in a low voice. “The Parrots are going to exchange a few crew members.”

“Good grief!” Joe exclaimed. “We’re bound to be recognized.”

“Your only chance is to get off this ship at Tambio Island.”

“And be marooned?” Frank protested.

“You won’t be,” Ellis assured them. “I hear there’s a hermit, or some kind of nutty guy living on the far side of the island. He’s said to be friendly. I’m sure you could stay with him until you flag down a ship.”

“That would be taking a long chance,” Frank said.

“Your chances are nil if you don’t get off this ship,” the radioman warned.

“When does the meeting take place?” Frank inquired.

“Tomorrow night.”

“Oh, oh.” Joe sighed, eyeing his brother. “Something tells me we’re in for a swim.”

“I don’t see any other way out,” Frank admitted.

“Good,” Ellis put in. “I’ll meet you fellows here tomorrow night and help you get away. Make it about ten o’clock. That’s when we’re scheduled to arrive.”

The Hardys were kept busy all the following day, and it was well after dark before they were released from duty.

Ding! Ding! came a tinkling.

“Two bells,” Joe said. “It’s nine o’clock.

“Only an hour to go,” remarked Frank. “Let’s try to get a few minutes’ rest before we meet Ellis.”

The boys were walking to their quarters when the first mate shouted to them. “Hey! You kids! Come here!”

“I wonder what he wants,” Joe whispered apprehensively as they obeyed Rawlin’s command.

“You two are spending the night in the brig,” Rawlin growled.

“Why?” Joe demanded angrily. “What’ve we done?”

“Shut up!” He summoned four members of the crew.

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