CHAPTER XXXII.
A SUCCESSFUL MISSION.
There was no one in sight, but it was evident that a party from an
American ship had visited the island. Had they departed? That was a
momentous question. Instinctively the eyes of both sought the sea. They
saw an American ship riding at anchor a mile or more from shore.
"Give me your handkerchief, Robert," said Bates; "I'll signal them."
"It isn't very clean," said our hero.
"It'll do. See, they are looking at us."
"Your eyes must be good."
"I'm used to looking out to sea, lad."
He waved the handkerchief aloft, and felt sure that he had attracted the
attention of those on board. But there was no motion to put off a boat.
"Do they see it?" asked Robert, eagerly.
"I think so."
"Do you think they will come for us? If not, we can put off in our
boat."
"I think the party that planted that flagstaff hasn't got back. It is
exploring the island, and will be back soon."
"Of course it is," said Robert, suddenly. "Don't you see their boat?"
"Ay, ay, lad; it's all right. All we've got to do is to stay here till
they come."
They had not long to wait. A party of sailors, headed by an officer,
came out of the woods, and headed for the shore. They stopped short in
surprise at the sight of Robert and Bates.
"Who are you?" asked the leader, approaching.
Bates touched his hat, for he judged this was the captain of the vessel
he had seen.
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