The boys were soon dressed and out in the courtyard, where the professor and the others presently joined them.
“We will have a regular American breakfast,” said Enrique Morano. “Usually my countrymen have nothing but a cup of coffee and a roll on rising, but I dropped that habit when I stopped in the United States.”
“I noticed the coffee and rolls at the hotel,” said Darry. “They are not very substantial.”
Breakfast was soon served, of cantelopes, tapioca, fish, rice cakes, rolls, and coffee and to it all did full justice. The cantelopes were particularly fine and fairly melted in the boys’ mouths.
“I must go to the University in an hour,” said Señor Morano. “But I have arranged for Greva, my head steward, to take you all over the place and explain whatever you desire to know. Greva speaks very good English. I will be with you again at four this afternoon, and then, if you wish, I will take you off on a horseback ride into the country.”
“We were thinking of getting back to Caracas this afternoon,” said Professor Strong.
“No, no, you must not think of it, my dear Strong!” cried the civil engineer. “I will not listen. You must remain to-night at least. I have so much I wish to talk about to you.”
“Oh, let us stay!” whispered Darry. “I’m just aching for a good horseback ride.”
“Yes, let us stay!” chimed in the others, and the professor could not resist the appeal.
“But what of Hockley?” he said. “He will be wondering what became of us.”