The two scouts went off together at a smart pace; and, as they walked up the street, Mr. Wentworth noticed a great contrast in the way they held themselves. The same thought seemed to have entered Mr. Jackson’s mind.
“I’m in great hopes,” he said, “that the drill and discipline on the Bright Wing may improve Billy’s physical condition. He is a studious boy, but he does not get enough fun or activity out of doors.”
“I understand, sir,” said Mr. Wentworth; “he has an intelligent face and a good bright eye, but his body isn’t well gathered together. He seems to have a little stoop in the shoulders. For how long is he to be on board, sir?”
“His berth is engaged for two weeks, but if there is room for him, he might possibly stay longer.”
“Well,” said Mr. Wentworth, “a good deal can be done in two weeks if a boy is intelligent and willing,—I mean in the way of a start. A good brain and willing disposition are the best sort of help to a boy for getting his body into shape; for, if he can get a strong idea of physical balance into his mind, it will give him an interest in keeping his body up to the mark. But, of course, he needs practice and exercise, too. I understand, sir, that you are also coming on board?”
“Yes,” replied Mr. Jackson, “I’m going as far as Provincetown, and then I shall have to take the train for home. I have not had a good sail for many years, and am looking forward with great pleasure to being on a Boy Scout ship.”
Mr. Wentworth was very glad of this opportunity to find out the special needs of the new boy, and he looked forward particularly to reporting everything he had learned to the Chairman and Mr. Miller.
“I shouldn’t wonder,” thought he to himself, “if we made a good light-weight boxer of the lad before he leaves the ship; but the main thing is to teach him to gather himself together and to swim and row well.” He had a quick eye for such things.
The conversation had not continued much longer when Bob and Billy reappeared with a heavy load of letters and bundles in the mail bag.
Fred Hamilton, the boatswain, was in charge of the launch that lay alongside the landing. Mr. Wentworth ordered the boys into her stern, and then got in himself to give Mr. Jackson a hand. He then went forward to the wheel and the boatswain stood by the engine.