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282 Those on the motor boat were equally eager, and watched the pursuit with chagrin.

"Do you—er—think they will catch us?" asked Josiah Crabtree, nervously, not once but several times.

"I don't know—I hope not," answered Pally.

"Can't we run faster?"

"I am crowding her to the limit now."

"Do you know about motor boats? Perhaps Mr. Sobber knows more."

"I don't," answered Tad Sobber. "Wish I did."

"I know about 'em—I ran one for two summers," answered Jim Pally. "I'll leave 'em behind if it's in the boat to do it."

"Oh, please let me go!" cried Mrs. Stanhope, almost tearfully. "Mr. Crabtree, I do not want to go with you another step! Please let me go!"

"Keep quiet, Mrs. Stanhope, don't excite yourself," he answered, trying to soothe her. But he was so nervous his voice trembled as he spoke. He had not dreamed that the pursuit would become so swift and sure.

Closer and closer drew the steam tug, until those on board could plainly see all that was taking place on the motor boat.

"I command you to stop!" yelled Captain Wells. "Stop, or we'll run you down."