"And yours?"
"Near Philadelphia, sir," said Wheedles.
"All within twelve hours of New London, aren't they?"
"Yes sir."
"Very well; that settles it. You give us ten days at least, and we'll do the Regatta at New London and any other old thing worth doing. Will you wire your people that you're going with us? 'Orders from your superior officer.' Who knows but you may all hit my ship and in that case you may as well fall in at once."
"Well you better believe there'll be no kick—I beg your pardon sir—I mean, I'll be delighted," stammered Happy.
"That Western Union wire is going to fuse, sir," was Wheedles' characteristic response.
"I said last time I was up at New London that I'd be singed and sizzled if I ever went again, sir, and that just goes to show 'what fools we mortals be'," was Shortie's quizzical answer.
"Orders received and promptly obeyed. So far so good," was the hearty response. "Now to the next. Mrs. Howland, what about you and your plans! We've got this little girl in tow all tight and fast, but you haven't put out a signal."
"It all sounds most enticing, but do you know I have another girl to think about? She is up at Smith College and will graduate in one week. I must be there for THAT if I never do another thing. It is an event in her life and mine."