Page:Dave Porter at Oak Hall.djvu/130

114 "I shan't report this," called out Dave, for the launch was now drifting further away. "I'll settle it with you two fellows myself."

No more could be said, for the launch was now a goodly distance away. Once more Gus Plum started up the engine, and soon he and his companion and their craft disappeared around a bend of the winding stream.

"That Dave Porter talks as if he meant business," said Macklin, nervously.

"Humph, I'm not afraid of him, Chip. Why I think I can fight him with one hand, if it comes to that!" added the millionaire's son, boastfully.

"He's a country boy, and most country boys are pretty strong."

"Well, I'm strong, too, and I've taken boxing lessons in the bargain. If Mr. Dave Porter don't want to get hurt he had better keep his distance."

"Do you suppose they'll report us?"

"I don't care if they do. Our story will be as good as theirs," answered Gus Plum.

Left to themselves, the three boys in the water righted their rowboat and bailed it out, and then rowed swiftly back to the boathouse.

"After all, I don't think it will do us any good to report this," said Roger. "Plum and Macklin will do their best to squeeze out of it."

"Roger is right," said Phil. "But I am going to make that bully keep his distance after this."