“Who is this Mackinder, who is Norton, what is in this ‘U-13’ package that he wants, how did it get into our baggage, why was it put there, where are we going, when do we eat!” demanded Jimmie in a breath.
“That’s the way to talk, Jimmie!” cried Harry, laughing in spite of the situation that the boys all felt to be a serious one.
“The last question is the most important!” stated Jack. “I’m in favor of the eats part and that without further delay.”
“Come on, boys,” suggested Ned. “Let’s eat first and talk things over afterward. I’m nearly famished myself, and Jimmie is hungry, too!”
In a short time the lads were seated in a quaint restaurant ordering strange dishes. They were hungry, as only healthy, active boys can be. The food was well cooked and appetizing. They ate heartily.
“Now, I’m in favor of getting to the docks as quick as possible,” announced Jimmie, pushing his plate away. “Let’s get our passage settled.”
All were in favor of this arrangement. After paying for their breakfast the lads set out in search of a ship upon which they might secure passage to the United States. But they were not to secure this easily.
Extended inquiry during the forenoon elicited the information that there was no vessel clearing from the port of Amsterdam for any place in America. Although they made every effort to find a steamer which would afford them the accommodations they sought none was found.
Inquiry at the railway station disclosed the fact that their airship, the Grey Eagle, now dismantled and packed in boxes, was at the freight sheds waiting a claimant. Until they could find a vessel to carry it home the boys preferred to let it remain in its present location.
After dinner they continued their inquiries for a vessel. At length they learned of a full-rigged three-masted ship that was to clear in a few days for New York. Regretting even this short delay the lads decided to attempt to secure passage, although the journey would be a long one.