"Yes, we have plenty to eat," she said.
"Then give me something at once," he cried. "Give me something at once!"
"Come with me."
There was now a crashing in the bushes back of Dan Baxter, and in a
second more Jack Lesher appeared on the scene. He too was haggard
and dirty, and his eyes were much blood-shot, the result of living
almost entirely on liquor for several days after being wrecked on
the islands.
"Well, is it possible!" cried the mate of the _Golden Wave_.
"They've got lots to eat," muttered Dan Baxter. "I'm going to have
something to fill me up before I start to talk."
"How many more of you are here?" asked Dora, in something of dismay.
"We came along alone," said Baxter. "Show us that grub."
Dora led the way to the camp-fire, where Nellie and Grace were also
surprised at the unexpected visitors. Some food was brought forth,
and both Baxter and Lesher ate like two famished wolves.
"Got any liquor?" questioned the mate, casting his eyes toward the house.
"We have a little," answered Nellie, for Captain Blossom had brought
over several bottles from the wreck.
"Bring it out."
When the liquor was brought Jack Lesher took a long draught and then
handed the bottle to Dan Baxter.
"That's the stuff!" cried the mate, with a sly wink at Dora. "Better
than eatin,' twice over," and he took another drink.
The manner of the two newcomers was not at all pleasing to the girls,
and they were sorry that none of the men folks were at hand.
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