By the time the work was accomplished, and Jack, Fred and Randy had prepared supper, it was growing dark. All of those aboard the steam yacht were exhausted from their exertions and glad to rest and take their time at eating.
“I don’t want to do any more to-night,” said Fred. “I think the best we can do is to shut ourselves in the cabin and make ourselves as comfortable as possible in the staterooms.”
“Just what I was going to suggest,” answered Jack.
“Why can’t we take turns at staying on guard?” suggested Andy. “I’m willing to keep awake for two or three hours, and then, one after another, you fellows can be called to do the same.”
Thereupon it was decided that each person should spend two hours on guard.
“If it’s all the same to you boys, I’ll take the first watch,” said Ira Small. “I want to see if I can’t do somethin’ with the steerin’ gear aboard this yacht. If the rudder’s in workin’ order, I want to see if I can’t head her up to the waves so she’ll ride a bit easier.”
“Well, that’s all right; but don’t overtax your hurt leg,” answered Jack. “If you need any of us in a hurry, yell or fire off the gun.”
Lighting the lantern in the cabin, the boys opened the doors to the various staterooms and then proceeded to make themselves as comfortable as the disordered condition of the compartments permitted. They had found quite a quantity of clothing on board, and now proceeded to take a rub-down and don some dry garments.
“It’s wonderful how warm it is,” said Jack. “I didn’t feel a bit cold even with that wet stuff on.”
“We must have drifted southward,” returned Randy.