took possession of the larger one. In addition, there were ample
lockers and spaces for storing away food, and the other things they
had brought with them. A considerable supply of gasoline had to be
carried, but there were several islands where more could be
purchased.

"Isn't it just the dearest boat!" murmured Belle, as she made a tour
of it, and had peeped into the engine compartment.

"It is," agreed her sister. "Oh, Cora, wouldn't you just fairly love
to run that splendid motor?"

"I would, if I didn't have to start it too often," replied Jack's
sister, as she looked at the heavy flywheel, which was now moving
about as noiselessly as a shaft of light. The propeller was not in
clutch, however.

"It has a self-starter," Joe informed the girls. "It's the smoothest
engine ever handled. No trouble at all."

"Better knock wood," suggested Jack.

"Eh? Knock wood?" asked the engineer, evidently puzzled.

"Oh, Jack means to do that to take away any bad luck that might
follow your boast," laughed Cora.

"Oh, I see. But I carry a charm," and Joe showed a queer black
pebble. "I always have it with me."