He would have been happy but for thinking of the anxiety of those at home. However, he managed to keep Toddie in the dry; and Frank and he got their oilskins and sou'-westers, and perfect little tars they looked now.
In about an hour they were far away at sea and no land in sight; but the wind had settled down to a steady blow, the seas raced up behind them, the sails were as stiff as pasteboard, and all danger seemed past.
"Aren't we going from home rather?" said Frank. Fred laughed, though he felt it was rude.
"We can't beat," said Fred, "we must run; but we've no cloth to speak of."
"Oh!" said Frank, "it is well to know that."
"I mean, you know, it is impossible to get back till this bit of a summer puff blows over. All right down there, Toddie?"
No answer. Toddie and Tip were fast asleep on the cushions.
Frank began to nod next, and finally collapsed, half in half out, of the little cabin. Fred pulled a tarpaulin over him, and then felt very lonely indeed.
It must be remembered Fred was only a youngster, though strong for his age. One thing anyhow I am quite sure of, he was not afraid; a better sailor he might have been, but fear—no.
Westward and westward with a bit of south in it went the Water Baby all day long.