Some of the shops displayed wares
that, under other circumstances, would have been attractive to the
girls, but now they did not feel like purchasing. They were under
too much of a strain.
"Well, no news is good news," quoted Walter.
Alas! how often has that been said as a last resort to buoy up a
sinking hope. No one else spoke, as they made their way to the dock
where the little ferry boat awaited them.
"What's the matter, Jack?" asked Walter, as he sat beside his chum on
the return trip.
"Matter! What do you mean?"
"You're so quiet."
"He doesn't feel well," put In Cora.
"Oh, I'm all right!" insisted Jack, with brotherly brusqueness. "Let
me alone!"
"Well, this place seems nice and cozy," commented Belle, as they
reached the Tartar, and stepped into the cabin, which Joe had
illuminated from the incandescents, operated by a storage battery
when the motor was not whirling the magneto.
"Yes, it is almost like home," said Bess, softly.
Jack and Walter looked carefully to the anchor rope, for though the
harbor was a safe one, there were muddy flats in places, and while
there was no wind at present to drag them, it might spring up in the
night.
"Might as well turn in, I guess," suggested Jack, with a weary yawn.
"Why--yes--old man--if you--feel that way about it!" mocked Walter,
pretending to gape.
"Oh, cut it out!" and Jack's voice was almost snarling.
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