to give them the name too. We chose it, and we can't think of any we
like so well."

"Oh, keep it, then!" answered Jim, with a wave of the hand like that of
a stage hero resigning a fortune. (It was evident that the subject had
been broached before.) "We are quite able to choose a name ourselves;
we could think of half a dozen others if we wanted to, so you are
welcome to call your boat whatever you please."

The permission might, indeed, have been more graciously expressed; but
as Jim's words were accompanied by a good-natured smile. Jack wondered
if he might not accept it.

Mrs. Gordon stood, with the bottle in her hand, waiting for the
decision, but wisely refraining from comment; the boys always settled
their little disputes for themselves.

"Well, what shall it be? Speak!" she said.

"The _Jolly Pioneer_!" cried both.

The next moment there was a crash of broken glass and a dash of
ginger-pop on what was called by courtesy the bow.

"Bravo! The Jolly Pioneer is a new recruit enlisted into the
temperance cadet corps," said Uncle Gerald, laughing.

There was a shifting of planks by Rob and Jack, and in another moment
the little craft was dancing gaily upon the bright waters.