Slater. "We might ask him about the schooner."
"A good idea," answered Dick.
They were soon close to the steam tug and the motor-boat owner waved his hand to the captain of the larger craft, who waved in return.
"I want to find a schooner named the Ellen Rodney!" shouted John Slater. "Did you pass her, Captain Voss?"
"I did," was the answer. "She was opposite Nyack, heading in to shore."
"Opposite Nyack!" exclaimed Dick. "How far is that from here?"
"Not more than two miles," answered John Slater, as he turned his motor-boat up the river again.
"We ought to be able to catch them now!" cried Sam, his face brightening a bit.
"Wish we had the police along," remarked Tom. "Bringing those rascals to terms may not be as easy as you imagine."
"I've got a gun on board," said John Slater. "A double-barreled shotgun I keep on hand to guard against river thieves. I use it to go gunning with, too."
"Good! Better bring it out and let us look at it," returned Dick.
The weapon was produced and found to be in good condition and loaded. It was placed on
