Although not an expert in matters pertaining to marine architecture, Teddy could appreciate the beauty of the little craft while she swung lazily to and fro at her cable as if husbanding strength against the time when speed and endurance would be required.
Neal signaled from the pier, two of the crew came ashore in the captain's boat, and the boys went on board where, during the remainder of the day, they were busy examining and admiring the jaunty little craft.
Leading from the main saloon were two state-rooms on either side, and in one of these Neal had already stored such of his belongings as he intended to take on the cruise.
"This is our room, and now that we are here I wonder why we were so foolish as to carry your baggage up to the house. If it was with us we would remain on board, for it is very much more pleasant than in the hot town."
"There is nothing to prevent our bringing it down," Teddy replied with a laugh. "I had certainly rather stay here to-night."
"Come on, and then we shall feel more at home when the cruise begins."
The boys were rowed ashore, and the sailors instructed to remain at the pier until their return.
Then a short visit was made to Mr. Emery's office, where Neal explained what they proposed to do, and having received permission to occupy the quarters slightly in advance of sailing time, Teddy's baggage was soon in the small apartment which to both the boys looked so enchanting.
"I wish we were to be gone three years," Teddy said as he threw himself on a locker and gazed around.
If he could have known just at that moment how long the cruise would really last it is very certain he would not have expressed such a desire.
"Next year father says he will start early in the season, take mother with us, and not come back until it is time for me to go to school."
"And you must get an invitation for me," Teddy replied, his eyes glistening with pleasure at simply contemplating such an excursion.
"There won't be any difficulty about it. He has already promised that if nothing happens he will speak to your father."
"And in the meanwhile we've got before us the jolly fact that we're to stay on board a month."
"Yes; but there's no good reason why we should remain below where it is so warm. Come on deck for awhile, and then we'll have a look at the engine-room."