Bob's story was this: A mackerel-schooner was anchored off shore; and
Bob had persuaded the sailor, who had given him the toy-boat, to take
him on board. The sailor had done this, not suspecting what was to
happen. A school of mackerel had been seen; and, as the breeze was fair,
the skipper spread all sail, and was soon five miles off shore.

The mackerel were so plenty that the fishermen made the most of their
luck, and did not return to the shore near the hotel till the third day.

"Did you have a good time, captain?" I asked.

"A _good_ time!" exclaimed Captain Bob. "It was the jolliest time I ever
had. You should have seen me pull in the fish."

After this adventure, Captain Bob was more of a hero than ever among the
people of the hotel.

EMILY CARTER.




[Illustration]

"PAPA CAN'T FIND ME."


No little steps do I hear in the hall;
Only a sweet silver laugh, that is all.
No dimpled arms round my neck hold me tight;