Don Gordon's hounds were noted watch-dogs, and any prowlers they discovered were pretty certain to be severely treated.

But there was no flinching on the part of the two boys.

Bob led the way almost on his hands and knees, stopping now and then to listen, and finally brought his companion to the place where the boats were moored.

There was only one of them available, however, for the canoe, which they had intended to take, was secured to a tree by a heavy padlock.
"Did you ever hear of such luck ?" whispered Bob.
"Couldn't we paddle the other up there ?" asked Lester, feeling of the chain with which the sail-boat was fastened to the wharf, to make sure that it was not locked.
"O, yes; but why is this canoe locked up?
That's what bothers me.
Perhaps Don suspects something and is on the watch." "Who cares if he is ?" exclaimed Lester.

"I've come too far to back out now.