Frank was surprised, but he thanked the genial landlord, saying:
"Really, sir, you are too kind, but we have everything comfortable on my yacht, and the fellows would not like it if I deserted them."
"Then bring them all here! I'm crowded, but I'll find room for you, if I have to give up a room myself."
He was in earnest, too.
Frank thanked him warmly once more, but exclaimed that such a thing would not do, as the White Wings might be stolen by the party who had attempted to seize her in the very mouth of Rockland harbor.
While they were talking, a very pretty, roguish-eyed girl came into the office, making an excuse that she was there on some sort of an errand. She cast sly glances at Frank, for really she was there to see him.
Of a sudden the landlord, laughing, caught her by the arm, and drew her round, saying:
"Here, Mr. Merriwell, is your greatest admirer in the house, Miss Phebe Macey. I heard her say once that she thought Frank Merriwell the finest fellow in the world, and she wondered why some of the Camden boys were not like him."
Frank was a little confused, but he lifted his cap and bowed, saying:
"Miss Macey, I am glad to know I have such an ardent admirer here."