The sail was hoisted; Peter had untied the rope, giving at the same time a sharp good-natured lecture to Sam, for making his boat fast in such an unsailor-like manner. Sam took it all in good part, for, in truth, he had not done the thing; it was some of Ned's handiwork. Jim stood on the stairs, giving Ned all sorts of directions and injunctions.
'Yes, yes, Jim; I'll see to it, never you fear.'
Off goes the little craft.
'Good-by, Sam; good-by, Ned. Take care of yourselves.'
'Good-by, Jim.'
'Good-by, my hearties; haul in that bow-line, and don't let it drag in that fashion; and haul your peak taut; you'll have a stiff breeze, but she'll bear it. Good luck to you.'
Gently the boat turned off, and took the swelling breeze. The boys looked back, to give a parting nod.
'Oh, Sam, who is that? ain't she a beauty though!—is that Susie? See, Sam, she is shaking her hand to you.'
Sam made no reply; he touched his hat lightly, as he had seen Peter do to the Major.
'I tell you what, Sam, I don't wonder you jumped into the water; I would have jumped, too, if I had been here.'