began to disperse. Tom found Ned and Mr. Damon, who were looking for him.
Bless my life preserver!" cried the odd man. "I thought surely this was my last voyage, Tom!"
"So did I," added Ned. "What's the matter, Tom, you look as though you'd seen a ghost."
"I have—pretty near. The Fogers are on board."
"No! You don't mean it!"
"It's a fact. I just saw them. They are the mysterious pasengers." And Tom related his experience.
"Where are they now?" demanded Ned, looking about the deck.
"Gone below again, I suppose. Though I don't see what object they can have in concealing their identity any longer."
"Me either. Well, that surely is a queer go."
"Bless my hot cross buns! I should say so!" commented Mr. Damon when he heard about it. "What are you going to do, Tom?"
"Nothing. I can't. They have a right on board. But if they try to follow us—well, I'll act then," and Tom shut his jaws grimly.
Our three friends went back to their stateroom, and Eradicate also retired. The excitement was passing, and soon the ship was under way again, the sudden shock having caused slight
