"Not the Dartaway!" and Ned and Bob crowded closer to Jerry.

"That's what she is. There's no mistake about it this time, I'm
afraid. You know we thought once before she had gone to flinders, but
it wasn't so. This time it is."

"How did it happen?" asked Ned.

"Yes, tell us, can't you?" cried Bob. "What are you so slow about?"

"Say, Chunky," remarked Jerry, looking at his fat chum, "if you'll
give me a chance I'll tell you all I know. I just got this telegram
from the Florida Coast Railway Company. It says:

"'Jerry Hopkins. Motor boat Dartaway, shipped by you from. St.
Augustine in freight wreck just outside Jacksonville. Boat total
loss, buried under several freight cars. Will write further
particulars. J. H. Maxon, General Freight Agent."

"That's all there is to it," added Jerry, folding up the telegram.

"All there is to it! I guess not much!" exclaimed Bob. "Aren't you
going to sue 'em for damages, Jerry?"

"Well, there's no use being in such a rush," observed Jerry. "Maybe
they'll pay the claim without a suit. I'll have to make some
inquiries."

"Let's go down to the freight once here and see Mr. Hitter," suggested