"Oh, that's all right!" said Betty, good-naturedly. "I'm glad they're
here now-- let them stay. I'm so relieved to find they aren't horrid
tramps. Besides, the motor may not-- mote-- and we'd need help-- We
will make them work their passage."

"Aye, aye, sir!" exclaimed Frank, pulling his front hair,
sailor-fashion. "Shall we holystone the decks, or scrub the lee
scuppers? You have but to command us!" and he bowed exaggeratedly.

"You may steer if you like," said Betty, graciously, and Frank and
Will were both so eager for the coveted privilege that they had to
draw lots to settle who should stand the first "trick."

For Betty's boat was a beauty, and the envy not only of Will and
Frank, but of every other boy in Deepdale. So it is no wonder these
two stowed themselves away for the chance of getting a ride in the
fine craft.

"Let's go down as far as one of the lake islands," suggested Will, who
was now at the wheel, his turn having come.

"Can we get back in time?" asked Betty. "The river is high now, after
the rains, and there's quite a current."

"Oh, the Gem has speed and power enough to do it in style," declared
Frank. "We'll guarantee to get you back in time for supper."

"All right," agreed the captain, who had gone into the cabin with the
other girls.