And so it proved.  The slow, measured strokes of oars came nearer and nearer, and, finally, the tall, raking masts of three of the swiftest-sailing boats in the squadron could be dimly seen moving down the river toward the creek.  As they approached, the smugglers discovered that two boys, in a light skiff, led the way, and one of them, who proved to be Charles Sheldon, pointed out the position he wished each boat to occupy.  The places assigned them were not directly opposite the mouth of the creek, but a little up the river, and about twenty feet from the shore; and this, afterward, proved to be a very favorable circumstance for the smugglers.

“Now, boys,” said Charles, after he had placed the little vessels to his satisfaction, “keep a good look-out up the river.”

“I should think,” said the captain of the division “that you ought to have us anchor directly in the mouth of the creek.  We shall have a good stiff breeze before long, and the Alert might slip out at any time, and, before we could hoist a sail, she would be half-way across the river.”

“I don’t think she will trouble you down here,” said Charles.  “Frank Nelson wouldn’t be foolish enough to send her out here, for it’s a good quarter of a mile below the foot of the island; and, even if she does come out here, and succeeds in getting by you, all we will have to do will be to send a division down to the foot of the island to meet her there, and then her capture is certain.  Now, remember, keep an eye open to everything that goes on up the river.  Never mind the Speedwell and Champion—­let them go where they please; but, if you see the Alert, why, you know what to do.”

And Charles and his attendant pulled back up the river.

“Now, Ben,” said Frank, “we’ve heard enough to know that we have fooled them nicely; so let’s go back.”

This, however, was no easy undertaking.  The way to their boat lay through bushes that could scarcely be penetrated, even in the day-time.  The coast-guards were anchored close by the shore, and the slightest noise would arouse their suspicions.

Frank led the way on his hands and knees, carefully choosing his ground, and they, at length, succeeded in reaching their boat, without disturbing the coast-guards.

A few moments’ pulling brought them alongside Mr. Butler’s wharf, where they found the others waiting for them.

“What news?” inquired George, as they clambered up out of the boat.

Frank explained, in a few words, the position of the squadron at the mouth of Ducks’ Creek, as well as the conversation they had overheard, and also inquired of George the result of his observations.

“It was too dark to see much,” he answered; “but we could plainly hear them taking their positions opposite the mouth of the creek.  It will be hard work to get through them, I tell you.”

“How are you going to work it, Frank?” inquired Ben.