As the holidays were now on they often met during the afternoons, when
the captain drilled them in marching, instructed them about the flag,
and taught them how to tie a number of knots. It was necessary for
them to know such things before they could obtain the tenderfoot
badges. They had to learn the Scout Law as well. It was not all work,
however, for the captain often took the boys for delightful spins upon
the river in the _Roaring Bess_, and soon all the scouts were able to
handle the yacht in a creditable manner.

It soon became evident that they must have a building of their own
where they could meet on wet days. The Commissioner had told them that
there was nothing like a club-room for their meetings. The captain had
been thinking this over for some time, and at last offered the use of
an old rafting shanty near the shore, and which could be easily seen
from Whyn's window. This building was fairly large, made of boards,
and the roof covered with tarred paper. It was well lighted by four
windows, which showed up the dirty condition of the room in an alarming
manner when the captain and the boys first inspected the place. There
were remnants of old bunks, tables and chairs, while broken boxes were
scattered about. But after two days of steady work a great change took
place. The boys were willing and eager, and inspired by the captain
they toiled until their backs ached. Holes in the roof were patched,
the broken door mended, several chairs were brought from the boys'
homes, and when all was done they were delighted at what they had
accomplished. They now no longer dreaded wet days, for they had a
place to meet where they could carry on their work to their hearts'
content. The captain had two good flags, which he placed upon the
wall, and the boys brought magazine pictures, and tacked them around
the room. In this way the place was made very cosy.